Thyroid Goitre
What is a goitre?
A goitre is an abnormally large thyroid gland that may develop due to the presence of multiple nodules (multinodular goitre, MNG) or due to diffuse enlargement of the gland.
What causes a goitre?
The most common cause of a goitre is iodine deficiency (not enough iodine in your daily intake). Other causes include multiple nodules, Graves’ disease (an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid gland which causes overactivity) and some forms of thyroiditis.
Do I need surgery to remove the goitre?
Goitres can be asymptomatic, cause pressure symptoms or be associated with an abnormal function of the thyroid gland. Pressure symptoms include the feeling of a lump in the throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing and occasionally changes to the voice. Goitres tend to grow slowly over time. Asymptomatic goitres can often be monitored.
Thyroid surgery is recommended:
if there are pressure symptoms
if the goitre is causing compression of the surrounding structures (such as the foodpipe or windpipe)
if there are concerning features on imaging or biopsy
if the goitre is extending into the chest
occasionally to treat an abnormally functioning thyroid (such as in the setting of Graves’ disease)
Dr Bell will perform a full workup of the goitre and will be able to advise you whether surgery is recommended in your circumstance.