Goitre Flashcards
1
Q
What is a goitre
A
swelling of the thyroid gland
causes a lump in the front of the neck
2
Q
how does a goitre present
A
can be asymptomatic- often incidental finding
visibly
hoarseness
dysphagia
difficulty breathing
3
Q
how do you investigate a goitre
A
thyroid function test
neck exam
4
Q
what can causes a goitre
A
hypo or hyperthyroidism
hormone changes e.g. in puberty, pregnancy, menopause
iodine deficiency
thyroiditis
thyroid cancer
5
Q
what are the 2 types of goitre
A
Diffuse= entire gland swells, Smooth to touch
Nodular= lumpy, can just be 1 or multiple
6
Q
how do you manage a goitre
A
depends on the effect on the thyroid:
- hormone replacement therapy/ ani-thyroid drug
pain relief
surgery if it causes problems e.g. dysphagia
radioactive iodine
