Thyroid nodules Flashcards
define thyroid nodules?
abnormal growth of thyroid cells that forms lump in thyroid gland
outline the aetiology/ risk
- most are BENIGN, but a small proportion turn into thyroid cancer
- Most thyroid nodules are adenomatous and most are multiple
- The nodules are usually non-functioning
summarise the epidemiology of thyroid nodules?
- 40% of the general population have a single nodule or multiple nodules
- More common in WOMEN
Very small proportion of thyroid nodules will be malignant
what are the presenting symptoms of thyroid nodules?
- Most are ASYMPTOMATIC
- Usually found on self-examination or clinical examination
• A single isolated nodule is more likely to be malignant
They can sometimes cause pain and will rarely compress the trachea or cause dysphagia
what are the signs of thyroid nodules on physical examination?
- Ask the patient to drink some water and see if the nodule moves when swallowing
- Check for regional lymphadenopathy (consider malignancy)
what are the appropriate investigations for thyroid nodules?
- TFTs - most patients will be euthyroid (normal functioning thyroid)
- Ultrasound - useful for determining the character of the thyroid nodules
- FNA - allows cytological analysis
• Radionuclide Isotope Scanning - checks iodine uptake
CT/MRI - detect spread of thyroid cancer
what is a mulitnodular goitre?
middle aged women, dysphagia, bumpy swelling, usually euthyroid but some cases a nodule can become autonomous and become a thyroxine-secreting adenoma (hyperthyroidism features)