Which type of thyroid cancer involves C cells?

Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid is the type that involves C cells, which are also known as parafollicular cells. These cells are responsible for producing calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood. Medullary thyroid carcinoma arises from these C cells, leading to the production of excess calcitonin. This type of cancer can be sporadic or hereditary, particularly in association with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) syndromes.

In contrast, the other types of thyroid cancer—papillary, follicular, and anaplastic carcinoma—originate from follicular cells of the thyroid gland, not C cells. Papillary carcinoma is characterized by its slow growth and excellent prognosis, often associated with radiation exposure. Follicular carcinoma typically presents as a well-differentiated tumor with potential for metastasis, and anaplastic carcinoma is a more aggressive form that often occurs in older patients and leads to a poor prognosis. The distinction between these cell types is crucial in understanding the origin and behavior of different thyroid cancers.