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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Thyroid Cancer

Unknown
3
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Boils

Moderate
2
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs

Overview

Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is cancer that develops in the cells of the thyroid gland, a small gland in the front of the neck that produces hormones involved in metabolism. Several types of thyroid cancer exist, including papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer. Many thyroid cancers are detected early and can be treated successfully.
Boils
A boil is a painful, pus-filled lump caused by an infection involving a hair follicle and nearby skin tissue. It may start as a tender, swollen area and enlarge as pus builds up. Several nearby boils can join to form a carbuncle.

Symptoms

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Cough Hoarseness Persistent Hoarseness
Only in Right Disease
Eye Pain Sudden Vision Loss

Causes

Shared
Infection
Only in Left Disease
Chronic Disease
Only in Right Disease
Obesity

Diagnosis

Thyroid Cancer
Diagnosis of thyroid cancer usually begins with a physical examination and assessment of a thyroid lump or other neck abnormality. Ultrasound can help evaluate thyroid nodules. Blood tests may assess thyroid function, although thyroid hormone levels are often normal in people with thyroid cancer. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy can be used to examine cells from a suspicious nodule. Additional imaging or testing may be needed to determine the extent of disease.
Boils
A healthcare professional can usually identify a boil by examining its appearance and asking about symptoms and previous episodes. A sample of fluid or pus may be cultured to identify the organism. Recurrent boils or signs of a wider infection may warrant further evaluation.

Prevention

Thyroid Cancer
There is no guaranteed way to prevent thyroid cancer. Avoiding unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation and using appropriate protection when radiation is medically necessary can reduce avoidable exposure. People with certain inherited syndromes or strong family histories may benefit from genetic counseling and appropriate medical monitoring. Children should receive radiation involving the head and neck only when medically indicated.
Boils
Regular handwashing, keeping skin clean, and keeping cuts clean and covered can reduce infection risk and spread. Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, or razors. Cover draining areas with a clean dressing and wash hands after contact. These measures reduce risk but cannot prevent every boil.

Risk Factors

Thyroid Cancer
Risk factors include previous exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation, especially during childhood, a family history of thyroid cancer, and certain inherited genetic syndromes. Some thyroid disorders and conditions affecting the thyroid may also be associated with increased risk. Risk varies according to the type of thyroid cancer.
Boils
Boils may be more likely with diabetes, conditions that weaken the immune system, certain skin conditions such as eczema, obesity, or close contact with someone who has boils. These factors affect susceptibility or exposure; a boil is not, by itself, evidence of poor personal hygiene.

Treatment

Thyroid Cancer
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Boils
Treatment comparison will be available soon.