
Thyroid cancer and the lungs: Symptoms and outlook
Although thyroid cancer first develops in the thyroid gland in the neck, it can spread (metastasize) to the lungs and other areas. Thyroid cancer can develop when atypical cells develop in the thyroid gland. This butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the neck produces thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and other vital functions. While many cases of thyroid cancer are treatable and localized, some can spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs. T