Thyroid cancer develops when the cells of the thyroid gland mutate and change. The thyroid gland is located in the lower front of the neck, above the collarbones and below the voice box (larynx). There are four types of thyroid cancer: papillary, medullary, anaplastic, and follicular. The most common types of thyroid cancer are papillary and follicular. 70-80% of all thyroid cancer cases are papillary with a great chance for a full recovery. Possible causes of thyroid cancer could be inherited genetically, iodine deficiency, and radiation exposure as a child. Some symptoms may include neck or throat pain, a lump in your neck, difficulty swallowing, vocal changes or hoarseness, and persistent cough. If you would like a second opinion on your treatment and diagnosis contact us at secondopinions.com for your peace of mind.