Understanding Nontoxic Nodular Goiter: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Non toxic nodular goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland that does not have to do with an inflammatory or malignant disease and does not cause any abnormalities in thyroid function. Non toxic goiter may be either diffuse or nodular. It is more common in puberty, during pregnancy and menopause, and its cause is not clear. It could be caused due to iodine deficiency, which is pretty uncommon in the US.

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Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- Thyroid nodules

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms of non toxic nodular goiter are an enlargement of the thyroid gland, usually symmetrical, smooth with multiple nodules and cysts. If the goiter is very large, it could cause difficulty to swallow and breath.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of non toxic nodular goiter starts with medical history and physical examination. A thyroid radioactive iodine uptake test may be done. In early stages, the test results usually are normal. Also, thyroid US may be performed and thyroid hormone levels are measured in the blood to rule out Hashimoto’s.

Treatment

Treatment of non toxic nodular goiter depends on the cause and may include iodine supplements, L-thyroxine to suppress stimulation of thyroid gland, which is not indicated in older patients. A surgical removal of the gland or treatment with iodine sometimes are used to shrink the goiter.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital