Final answer:
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is the type of thyroid cancer that often occurs as part of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type II.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of thyroid cancer that often occurs as part of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type II is medullary thyroid cancer (MTC).
MTC is a rare form of thyroid cancer that accounts for approximately 4% of all thyroid cancers. It arises from the parafollicular or C cells of the thyroid gland, which produce the hormone calcitonin. MEN type II is an inherited disorder that is characterized by the development of certain tumors, including MTC.
In MEN type II, MTC is typically associated with other endocrine tumors, such as pheochromocytoma and parathyroid tumors. It is important for individuals with a family history of MEN type II or symptoms of MTC to undergo genetic testing and regular screening to detect and manage the cancer at an early stage.