# What is the difference between the spread of papillary thyroid cancer and follicular thyroid cancer? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/papillary-follicular-thyroid-cancer-spread-differences Language: en Category: oncology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.607Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.607Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/papillary-follicular-thyroid-cancer-spread-differences Both papillary and follicular thyroid cancers are types of differentiated cancers that originate in the tissues of the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck that produces hormones controlling how the body uses energy [\[1\]](). The primary difference lies in the pattern of their spread: papillary thyroid cancer tends to spread through the lymphatic system, whereas follicular thyroid cancer tends to spread through the blood vessels [\[2\]](). ## Understanding Spread Patterns Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type of differentiated thyroid cancer. This type often spreads to nearby lymph nodes in the neck, meaning cancer cells travel from the thyroid gland via lymphatic vessels to reach these nodes [\[2\]](). Despite this lymphatic spread, papillary thyroid cancer generally has a favorable prognosis and can be successfully treated [\[2\]](). Follicular thyroid cancer, conversely, is less common than the papillary type. This type is characterized by its tendency to spread through the blood vessels to distant parts of the body, such as the lungs or bones [\[2\]](). This pattern of spread is known as hematogenous spread. Despite the difference in the method of spread, follicular thyroid cancer is also considered a differentiated tumor that can be treated in most cases [\[2\]](). ## Diagnosis and Cancer Staging To determine the type of thyroid cancer and the extent of its spread, doctors may use several tests. Diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination of the neck to check for any lumps or swelling [\[1\]](). Other tests may include blood tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans, and a thyroid biopsy [\[1\]](). These examinations help determine whether cancer cells have spread within the thyroid gland or to other parts of the body [\[2\]](). The stage of thyroid cancer depends on several factors, including the patient's age, the type of cancer, and whether it has spread [\[2\]](). For instance, papillary and follicular thyroid cancers are classified differently for patients younger than 55 compared to older individuals [\[2\]](). You can learn more about this topic by visiting the page [Papillary and Follicular Thyroid Cancer: Differences, Diagnosis, and Treatment (Arabic)](). ## Treatment Options Treatment for thyroid cancer depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and whether it has spread [\[1\]](). Treatment often involves surgery to remove the thyroid gland or a portion of it [\[1\]](). Other options may include radioactive iodine therapy, chemotherapy, thyroid hormone therapy, and targeted therapy that specifically attacks cancer cells [\[1\]](). In some cases, a doctor may recommend active surveillance, where the patient is monitored regularly without starting immediate treatment [\[1\]](). ## Importance of Follow-up After treatment, regular follow-up with a doctor is essential. Thyroid cancer can return (recur) after treatment [\[2\]](). Therefore, follow-up aims for the early detection of any signs of cancer recurrence or spread. Patients should report any new or changing symptoms, such as the appearance of a lump in the neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or hoarseness in the voice that does not improve [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Thyroid Cancer]() - [Thyroid Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/papillary-follicular-thyroid-cancer-spread-differences#answer