GOITRE

Question 1

What is goitre

Answer 1

Swelling of the front of the neck due to enlargement of the thyroid gland

Question 2

All neck swellings are goitre T/F

Answer 2

False

Question 3

Goitres can be benign or mlignant. T/F

Answer 3

True

Question 4

Goitres can be associated with normal, reduced or excessive thyroid function T/F

Answer 4

True

Question 5

Causes of goitre

Answer 5

Simple non-toxic goitre or endemic goitre
Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis
Thyroid neoplasm (benign or malignant)

Question 6

Synptoms of goitre

Answer 6

Swelling in the neck
Breathing and swallowing difficulty if large
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Question 7

Which type of thyroid swelling is smooth and which type is irregular

Answer 7

Diffuse thyroid swelling is smooth

Nodular thyroid swelling is irregular

Question 8

Investigations in goitre

Answer 8

Thyroid function tests
Thyroid ultrasound scan
Thyroid autoantibodies
Radioisotope scan of thyroid
Fine needle aspiration cytology
X-ray of the neck including thoracic inlet view for large goitres

Question 9

Treatment objectives for goitre

Answer 9

To assess and correct level of thyroid hormone production
To reduce symptoms associated with thyrotoxicosis
To reduce or prevent obstructive symptoms
To identify thyroid neoplasms and manage appropriately