Thyroid Cancer

by unknown | 10:16 PM in |

There are about 20,000 new cases of thyroid cancer each year in the United States. Females are more likely to have thyroid cancer at a ratio of three to one. Thyroid cancer can occur in any age group, although it is most common after age 30 and its aggressiveness increases significantly in older patients. The majority of patients present with a nodule on their thyroid which typically does not cause symptoms. Remember, over 99% of thyroid nodules are not cancer! But, when a thyroid cancer does begin to grow within a thyroid gland, it almost always does so within a discrete nodule within the thyroid.
Cold nodule in thyroid

Occasionally, symptoms such as hoarseness, neck pain, and enlarged lymph nodes do occur. Although as much as 75 % of the population will have thyroid nodules, the vast majority are benign. Young people usually don't have thyroid nodules, but as we get older, more and more of us will develop a nodule. By the time we are 80, 90% of us will have at least one nodule. Far less than 1% of all thyroid nodules are malignant. A nodule which is cold on scan (shown in photo outlined in red and yellow) is more likely to be malignant, nevertheless, the majority of these are benign as well. A lot of information about thyroid nodules and the potential of these nodules to be malignant is contained on 3 pages about nodules:
1. Introduction to thyroid nodules
2. The workup of thyroid nodules and the role of Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNA)
3. The role of thyroid ultrasound and what it means

Types of Thyroid Cancer

There are four types of thyroid cancer some of which are much more common than others.

* Papillary and/or mixed papillary/follicular ~ 78%
* Follicular and/or Hurthle cell ~ 17%
* Medullary ~ 4%
* Anaplastic ~ 1%

Note, Chief Justice William Rehnquist had anaplastic thyroid cancer. After reading this overview page on thyroid cancer, click here to read more about Chief Justice William Rehnquist and his classic battle with the worst kind of thyroid cancer.

What's the Prognosis ?

Most thyroid cancers are very curable. In fact, the most common types of thyroid cancer (papillary and follicular) are the most curable. In younger patients, both papillary and follicular cancers can be expected to have better than 97% cure rate if treated appropriately. Both papillary and follicular cancers are typically treated with complete removal of the lobe of the thyroid which harbors the cancer, PLUS, removal of most or all of the other side. The bottom line, most thyroid cancers are papillary thyroid cancer, and this is one of the most curable cancers of ALL cancers that humans get. As we often tell our patients, if you must choose a type of cancer to have, papillary cancer would be your choice. Treat it correctly and the cure rate is extremely high!

Medullary cancer of the thyroid is significantly less common, but has a worse prognosis. Medullary cancers tend to spread to large numbers of lymph nodes very early on, and therefore requires a much more aggressive operation than does the more localized cancers such as papillary and follicular. This cancer requires complete thyroid removal PLUS a dissection to remove the lymph nodes of the front and sides of the neck.

The least common type of thyroid cancer is anaplastic which has a very poor prognosis. Anaplastic thyroid cancer tends to be found after it has spread and is not cured in most cases (it is very uncommon to survive anaplastic thyroid cancer). Often an operation cannot remove all the tumor. These patients often require a tracheostomy during the treatment, and treatment is much more aggressive than for other types of thyroid cancer--because this cancer is much more aggressive.

Chemotherapy

Thyroid cancer is unique among cancers, in fact, thyroid cells are unique among all cells of the human body. They are the only cells which have the ability to absorb Iodine. Iodine is required for thyroid cells to produce thyroid hormone, so they absorb it out of the bloodstream and concentrate it inside the cell. Most thyroid cancer cells retain this ability to absorb and concentrate iodine. This provides a perfect "chemotherapy" strategy. Radioactive Iodine is given to the patient with thyroid cancer after their cancer has been removed. If there are any normal thyroid cells or thyroid cancer cells remain in the patient's body (and any thyroid cancer cells retaining this ability to absorb iodine) then these cells will absorb and concentrate the radioactive "poisonous" iodine. Since all other cells of our bodies cannot absorb the toxic iodine, they are unharmed. The thyroid cancer cells, however, will concentrate the poison within themselves and the radioactivity destroys the cell from within. No sickness. No hair loss. No nausea. No diarrhea. No pain. More about the use of radioactive iodine on the pages for each specific thyroid cancer type.

Most, but not all patients with thyroid cancer need radioactive iodine treatments after their surgery. This is important to know. Almost all, however, should have the iodine treatment if a cure is to be expected. Just who needs it and who doesn't is a bit more detailed than can be outlined here. Patients with medullary cancer of they thyroid usually do not need iodine therapy...because medullary cancers almost never absorb the radioactive iodine. Some small papillary cancers treated with a total thyroidectomy may not need iodine therapy as well, but for a different reason. These cancers are often cured with simple (complete) surgical therapy alone. Important!!! This varies from patient to patient and from cancer to cancer. Don't look for easy answers here. This decision will be made between the surgeon, the patient, and the referring endocrinologist or internist. Remember, radioactive iodine therapy is extremely safe. If you need it, take it. And, as we often tell our patients, radioactive iodine has a near zero complication rate, so if there is a chance that it will help... take it!
Source - http://www.endocrineweb.com/thyroidca.html

*Let share what ladybugsandbees said about thyroid..(thanks lady)

Tasik Bera (Bera Lake)

by unknown | 12:33 AM in |

A Wetland Wilderness

Located in Southwest Pahang, Tasik Bera is situated in the saddle of the main and eastern mountain ranges of Peninsular Malaysia. This natural freshwater lake system, extending 35km long and 20km wide, drains into the Pahang River via the Bera River, the main artery to the north.


As the largest freshwater swamp in Peninsular Malaysia, Tasik Bera or Bera Lake remains both a unique and remote wetland wilderness. Surrounded by a patchwork of dry lowland dipterocarp forests, the lake environment stretches its tentacles into islands of peat swamp forests. Rich in wildlife and vegetation, Tasik Bera is an ecosystem which supports not only a diversity of animal and plant life, but sustains the livelihood of the Semelai, the aboriginal people inhabiting the wetlands.

Like many other wetlands, Tasik Bera also plays an important role in flood control, water flow regulation and purification and provides many natural resources for the local community. Therefore, it has been protected under an international treaty - the RAMSAR CONVENTION, which allows traditional and wise use of the area to continue. Tasik Bera Ramsar site was declared in November 1994. It includes a core zone of 26,000 ha. and a buffer zone of 27,500 ha.

In order to conserve and enhance the bio-diversity of Tasik Bera and ensure the wise use of its natural resources, the Pahang State Goverment has implemented a 3-year programme with the financial assistance of the Danish Goverment under its DANCED scheme (Danish Cooperation for Environment
and Development) and technical assistance from Wetlends International-Asia Pacific, In addition to conducting biological and wildlife surveys, Wetlands International is formulating a nature based tourism development plan that includes the establishment of a visitor centre/field study centre, training of site personnel and the integration of the local community in to the overall development.

Tasik Bera

Seasons
Tasik Bera has distinct wet and dry seasons which may determine the best time to visit. The wet months are from April to May and from September to January; while the dry periods are from February to April and June to August. According to the local aboriginal community, know as the Semelai, good fishing occurs after heavy rains. Some sections of forest trails may be inaccessible during the wet months.

Habitats and Wildlife
Tasik Bera is characterised by a watery landscape dominated by large grass-like blades of pandanus leaves which line the narrow channels leading into the lake, Navigating by boat through the swamp forests, a variety of ferns, orchids and epiphytes can be seen attached to tree trunks and branches, while strands of thorny rattan weave through the undergrowth. Among the fields of metre high reeds and rows of dense foliage found in the open water, dozens of pitcher plants hang in shades of green and red. In the drier areas, lowland rainforest trees and palms add to the diversity of the wetland reserve.


Tasik Bera is a sanctuary for more than 200 bird species, 50 mammals and 90 fish species. It is also a habitat providing food and shelter for bird life, including kingfishers, hawks, herons, but overall, waterbirds are strangely scarce. Though very difficult to see in the wild, the extended wetland area and its surrounding forests still support tigers, tapirs and elephants, all endangered species. Other wildlife known to exist in Tasik Bera include the clouded leopard, wild boars, monkeys, mousedeer, flying squirrels and flying lemur through the endangered crocodile called the Malayan False Gharial is a rare sight these days. As an important biodiversity reservoir for freshwater fishes, Tasik Bera contains a large number of the country's total species, including popular aquarium fish such as harlequins and tiger barbs as well as large presatory catfish and other sport fish.

Tasik Bera

Nature Activities
Being off the beaten track, Tasik Bera offers its own share of recreational and adventure opportunities for the nature enthusiast. The relative isolation and tranquil surroundings of the open water are perfect for boating and kayaking. Visitors will enjoy spending a few hours cruising the vegetation and search for wildlife.



Biologically rich in flora and fauna, the lowland rainforests offer ample opportunities for jungle trekking excursions. With over 15 types of sport fish in the rivers and lake, Tasik Bera is a haven for anglers.

In order to ensure their safety, visitors are advised to hire a Semelai guide for all nature and sport fishing activities on the lake or in the surrounding forests. This is because of the extensive and maze-like nature of the swamp and its intricate water ways which requires the expertise of the Semelai to traverse.

Tasik Bera

The Semelai
Archaeological evedance suggests that aboriginal people have lived in Tasik Bera for over 600 years. Today there are approximately over 1200 Semelai.

The majority of Semelai live in Pos Iskandar, a settlement area with five main villages where they cultivate hill rice, cassava, vegetables, fruit and rubber trees. Traditional Semelai homes are built from forest products such as bamboo for flooring and tree bark for walls. Dependent on the lake and forests, the Semelai continue to fish, hunt and trap wildlife to supplement their income. Adept at utilising forest products to make traps, spears, and canoes, the Semelai still use these traditional devices for their daily catch. They also practise the traditional collection of "minyak keruing", the resin from the Keruing tree which can be used for making torches, sealing boats and as and ingredient in perfume.
Medicinal species, usually planted near the home, are still used to fend off fever and other ailments. With only a few people owning shotguns, the Semelai still use traps to hunt game (mainly wild boar and deer). Their extensive knowledge of both the forest and lake habitats make them a popular choice as guides among sport fisherman. Their traditional handicrafts made from wetland and forest products such as coloured mats, miniature boats, fish traps, mouse deer traps, axes and other items are available for sale at Pos Iskandar.

The lymphatic system

by unknown | 4:27 PM in |

The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, the system that defends the body against infection. The lymphatic system is a network of small lymph nodes (or lymph glands) connected by very thin lymph vessels, which branch into every part of the body except the brain and spinal cord. The major nodes can be found in the neck, armpits, chest, abdomen, pelvis and groin. Other parts of the lymphatic system include the spleen, thymus and bone marrow.

A clear fluid called lymph flows through the lymph vessels. It contains white blood cells called lymphocytes, special proteins called antibodies, and some waste products. Lymphocytes and antibodies are important parts of your body’s immune system. The lymph fluid passes through the lymph nodes, which filter out bacteria and other harmful agents.


Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Lymphoma is a general term for a cancer that begins in the lymph tissue.
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a group of cancers of the lymph nodes. These cancers differ in the typed of lymph cells they affect, the symptoms they cause and the speed at which they grow. Sometimes non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma appears at the same time in several parts of the body.

When you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma appears are the same time in several parts of the body. When you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, large numbers of abnormal lymphocytes are made. These abnormal lymphocytes replace some of your normal lymphocytes. This can disrupt your immune system and reduce your ability to fight infections. The lymph nodes also become enlarged, forming painless lumps (tumours).

Kidney Cancer

by unknown | 2:10 PM in |

The kidneys are two reddish-brown, bean-shaped organs located just above the waist, one on each side of the spine. They are part of the urinary system. Their main function is to filter blood and produce urine to rid the body of waste. As blood flows through the kidneys, they remove waste products and unneeded water. The resulting liquid, urine, collects in the middle of each kidney in an area called the renal pelvis. Urine drains from each kidney through a long tube, the ureter, into the bladder, where it is stored. Urine leaves the body through another tube, called the urethra. The kidneys also produce substances that help control blood pressure and regulate the formation of red blood cells.

Kidney Cancer
Several types of cancer can develop in the kidney. The information here will discuss renal cell cancer, the most common form of kidney cancer in adults.
Transitional cellcancer (carcinoma), which affects the renal pelvis, is a less common form of kidney cancer. It is similar to cancer that occurs in the bladder and is often treated like bladder cancer. Wilms’ tumour, the most common type of childhood kidney cancer, is different from kidney cancer in adults.
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Taman Negara - Malaysia National Park

by unknown | 8:45 AM in |

Taman Negara National park spread out over 4343 sq. km of the formidable Titiwangsa Mountain Range ,one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. A sanctuary to hundreds of species of birds, butterflies, insects, fish and plants. Home to Malaysia’s friendly aborigines, the Orang Asli. A shy yet gentle race, they continue to live the nomadic way they’ve lived for centuries although fully aware of the country’s fastest-paced progress.
Come discover the living treasure Mother Nature has to offer. Whether it’s shooting thrilling rapids, exploring spectacular caves, tackling a 20-pound fish, scaling up Peninsular Malaysia’s highest mountain, trekking through dense, tricky forest pathways or swimming in crystal clear pools, Malaysia’s National Park is a nature paradise you must experience. An adventure of a lifetime awaits you.
To experience the full glory of the tropical rainforest there is perhaps no better place on earth than Taman Negara (National Park). Legally declared an area for conservation in 1938, the 135 million year old Taman Negara is a haven for the nation’s flora and fauna.
Jungle tracks, campsites and the Taman Negara Resort have all being constructed to blend with the natural surroundings, to be in harmony with the forest. Many structured have been built strictly for the observation and appreciation of the grandeur of the towering forest and its inhabitants.
Having enjoyed protection for almost 60 years a wealth of undisturbed habitats exists for the intrepid explorers to discover. You can take day or night time jungle walks or stay in a hide and maybe catch a glimpse of some of the 250 or so species of fauna that exists within the parks boundaries, from hornbills, pheasants and kingfishers monkeys, gibbons, wildboar, deer, tapir, and maybe even an elephant or tiger. Six observation points have seen set up specifically overlooking salt licks and grassy clearings for the observation of wild, often shy animals. These hides allow the visitor to spend a night away from the resort to observe the nocturnal activities of the animals of the forest. Activities within the Park are primarily nature based, taking full advantage of the many streams, rivers, caves hills and the forest itself. Enjoy a bracing swim in cool waters, a full day’s trek, a boat ride and even a spot of angling should you so desire.
A visit to Taman Negara, however, is not complete until you have done the canopy walk. The world’s longest such walk, it winds over 400 meters in the forest canopy allowing you to view the rich and diverse flora and fauna at the very summit of the forest, 25 meters above the ground.
Orang Asli guides can be engaged for excursions to specific areas in the Park, such as the various caves. A visit to the orang Asli settlement is also worthwhile here.
Accommodation in the Park is at the jungle lodge, chalets and a hostel, all with basic facilities. Superior rooms at Taman Negara Resort are air-conditioned and have private bathrooms.
More Photos here
Link: Taman Negara
Campsites and camping equipment are available for hire and restaurants in the Park serve an international cuisine.
Taman Negara, Taman Negara Pahang

Liver Cancer

by unknown | 8:21 AM in |

Liver Cancer

The liver is the largest organ in the body. It is found behind the ribs on the right side of the abdomen. The liver has two parts, a right lobe and a smaller left lobe.

The liver has many important functions that keep a person healthy. It removes harmful material from the blood. It makes enzymes and bile that help digest food. It also converts food into substances needed for life and growth.


The liver gets its supply of blood from two vessels. Most of its blood comes from the hepatic portal vein. The rest comes from the hepatic artery.

Most primary liver cancers begin in hepatocytes (liver cells). This type of cancer is called hepatocellularcarcinoma or malignant hepatoma. Children may develop childhood hepatocellular carcinoma or hepatoblastoma. This information does not deal with childhood liver cancer.
When liver cancer spreads (metastaseses) outside the liver, the cancer cells tend to spread to nearby lymph nodes and to the bones and lungs. When this happens, the new tumour has the same kind of abnormal cells as the primary tumour in the liver. For example, if liver cancer spreads to the bones, the cancer cells in the bones are actually liver cancer cells. The disease is metastatic liver cancer, not bone cancer. It is treated as liver cancer, not bone cancer.


Similarly, cancer that spreads to the liver from another part of the body is different from primary liver cancer. The cancer cells in the liver are like the cells in the original tumour. When cancer cells spread to the liver from another organ (such as the colon, lung, or breast), doctors may call the tumour in the liver a secondary tumour.
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