Thyroid Nodules (cont.)
What are the symptoms of thyroid nodules?
The vast majority of thyroid nodules do not cause symptoms. However, if the
cells in the nodules are functioning and producing thyroid hormone on their
own, the nodule may produce signs and symptoms of too much thyroid hormone
(hyperthyroidism). A small number of patients
complain of pain at the site of the nodule that can travel to the ear or
jaw. If the
nodule is very large, it can compress the esophagus or trachea and cause
difficultly swallowing or shortness of breath. In rare instances, a patient
may complain of hoarseness or difficulty speaking because of compression of
the larynx (or voice box).
What are the types of thyroid nodules?
Thyroid nodules may be single or multiple. A thyroid gland that contains
multiple nodules is referred to as a multinodular goiter. If the nodule is
filled with fluid or
blood, it is called a thyroid cyst. If the nodule produces thyroid hormone
in an uncontrolled manner without regard to the body's needs, the nodule is
referred to as autonomous. This type of nodule may cause signs and symptoms
of too much thyroid hormone or hyperthyroidism, as mentioned above.
Occasionally, patients with a thyroid nodule may have too little thyroid
hormone or hypothyroidism. This is most
often seen when the hypothyroidism is due to
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an
inflammatory, autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland.
The most common types of noncancerous, single thyroid nodules are colloid
nodules or follicular adenomas. Another type of benign nodule that may be
seen is called a Hurthle cell adenoma. Only a minority of nodules are
cancerous. Cancerous nodules are classified by the types of malignant
thyroid cells they contain. These cell types include papillary, follicular,
medullary, or poorly differentiated (anaplastic) cells. The prognosis for
the patient depends largely on the cell type and how far the cancer has
spread by the time it is discovered.
In addition to thyroid cancer of the cell types mentioned, thyroid nodules
may contain lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system. Cancer from other
sites, such as breast and kidney, also can spread (metastasize) to the
thyroid gland.
The cause of most thyroid nodules is not known. In certain cases, a lack of
iodine in the diet can cause the thyroid gland to develop nodules. There
also are certain genes that may be involved in the development of nodules in
some individuals.
Next: How are thyroid nodules diagnosed? »
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