Conditions: Goiter
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Goiter (also known as thyromegaly)
A goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland.
A goiter with multiple nodules is a multinodular goiter.
A goiter with multiple nodules and without hyperthyroidism is a non-toxic multinodular goiter.
A goiter that extends into the chest, behind the sternum (breastbone) is a substernal goiter.
What causes a goiter?
Worldwide, the most common cause for goiter is a lack of iodine in the diet. In the United States, with a prevalence of iodinized salt, iodine deficiency is rare. Factors other than iodine deficiency that lead to the development of a goiter include the following:
multiple enlarged nodules
genetic predisposition
What problems can come from a goiter?
Most importantly, determination if a goiter contains cancer must be undertaken.
Non-cancerous problems associated with a goiter may include hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, compression of the trachea or esophagus, and cosmetic.
how is a Goiter evaluated?
History and physical exam by a physician is a good starting point.
Ultrasound, initially.
Blood testing to evaluate for hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Other blood testing may be indicated to evaluate for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Grave’s disease.
A radioiodine uptake scan may be helpful.
Other testing, such as ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsy may then be indicated.