Thyroid Goitre Flashcards
What is a thyroid goitre
Generalised swelling of the thyroid gland
There are two main types of thyroid goitre.
Name them
Diffuse goitre
Nodular goitre
What is a diffuse thyroid goitre
Occurs when the entire thyroid gland swells
Feels smooth to the touch
What is a nodular thyroid goitre
Occurs when nodule(s), which can be either solid or fluid filled, develop within the thyroid making it feel nodular to the touch.
Name four potential causes of diffuse thyroid goitre
Graves disease
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Iodine deficiency
Drugs e.g. lithium
Is Graves disease:
a) Hyperthyroidism
b) Hypothyroidism
a) Hyperthyroidism
Is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
a) Hyperthyroidism
b) Hypothyroidism
b) Hypothyroidism
Is iodine deficiency:
a) Hyperthyroidism
b) Hypothyroidism
b) Hypothyroidism
* Iodine is important in the development of thyroid hormones*
Name three potential causes of a nodular thyroid goitre
Toxic multinodular goitre
Thyroid cyst
Cancer
Is toxic multinodular goitre:
a) Hyperthyroidism
b) Hypothyroidism
a) Hyperthyroidism
What are some clinical features of a thyroid goitre
- Mobile – moves on swallowing
- Typically, small and thus asymptomatic
- Severe cases can cause:
- Coughing
- Voice changes e.g. hoarseness
- Dysphagia
How is a thyroid goitre diagnosed
Examination
History
Thyroid function tests (TFTs)
How are thyroid goitres managed
Treat underlying cause
Majority are managed conservative with a wait and see approach
Other treatments include radioiodine and thyroid surgery
