Hurthle cell cancer doesn't always cause symptoms, and it's sometimes detected during a physical examination or an imaging test done for some other reason.

When they do occur, signs and symptoms may include:

• A lump in the neck, just below the Adam's apple
• Pain in the neck or throat
• Hoarseness or other changes in your voice
• Shortness of breath
• Swallowing difficulty

These signs and symptoms don't necessarily mean that you have Hurthle cell cancer. They may be indications of other medical conditions — such as inflammation of the thyroid gland or an enlargement of the thyroid (goiter).

Make an appointment with your health care provider if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you.

It's not clear what causes Hurthle cell cancer.

This cancer begins when cells in the thyroid develop changes in their DNA. A cell's DNA contains the instructions that tell a cell what to do. The DNA changes, which doctors call mutations, tell the thyroid cells to grow and multiply quickly. The cells develop the ability to continue living when other cells would naturally die. The accumulating cells form a mass called a tumor that can invade and destroy healthy tissue nearby and spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Factors that increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer include:

• Being female
• Being older
• Having a history of radiation treatments to the head and neck
• Having a family history of thyroid cancer

Possible complications of Hurthle cell cancer include:

• Problems with swallowing and breathing. They can occur if the cancer grows and presses on the food tube (esophagus) and windpipe (trachea).
• Spread of the cancer. Hurthle cell cancer can spread (metastasize) to other tissues and organs, making treatment and recovery more difficult.

A diagnosis of Hurthle cell cancer can be challenging. Many people feel stressed and anxious. With time you'll find strategies to cope. Until then, here are some ideas that might help:

• Find someone to talk with. You may feel comfortable discussing your feelings with a friend or family member, or you might prefer meeting with a formal support group. Support groups for the families of cancer survivors also are available.
• Let people help. Cancer treatments can be exhausting. Let friends and family know what would be most useful for you.
• Set reasonable goals. Having goals helps you feel in control and can give you a sense of purpose. But choose goals that you can reach. Write down a list of priorities each day and recognize that you can't do it all.
• Conserve your energy. Recognize that you can say no to demands and expectations that will reduce your energy. Save your energy for doing the things that are most important to you.
• Take time for yourself. Eating well, relaxing and getting enough rest may help combat the stress and fatigue of cancer.

Start by making an appointment with your health care provider if you have signs and symptoms that worry you.

If Hurthle cell cancer is suspected, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating thyroid disorders (endocrinologist) or a doctor who specializes in treating cancer (oncologist).

Because appointments can be brief, it's often helpful to arrive well prepared. Here's some information to help you get ready and what to expect from your provider.

What you can do

• Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason why you scheduled the appointment.
• Write down your key medical information, including other conditions.
• Make a list of all your medications, including prescriptions and medicines that are available without a prescription, as well as any vitamins or supplements that you take.
• Gather information about your family health history, including thyroid diseases and other diseases that run in your family.
• Ask a relative or friend to accompany you to help you remember what the provider says.
• Write down questions to ask your provider.
• Ask how to access your provider's online patient portal so you can see what the provider has written in your medical history. There may be some technical terminology, but it can be helpful to review what was shared during your appointment.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Are there other possible causes?
• What kinds of tests do I need? Do they require any special preparation?
• What treatments are available, and what side effects can I expect?
• What's my prognosis?
• How often will I need follow-up visits after I finish treatment?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• What happens if I choose not to have treatment?

What to expect from your doctor

Your provider is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may leave time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked:

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms? Have they been continuous or occasional?
• Have your symptoms gotten worse?
• Do you have a personal or family history of cancer? What type?
• Have you ever received radiation treatments to the head or neck area?