Goiter (Thyromegaly)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Goiter
Category : Health Centers > Endocrine Disorders

Goiter

Alternate Names : Thyromegaly

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland that is not due to cancer. The thyroid gland is located in the neck just below the Adam's apple.

What is going on in the body?

Thyroid hormone is important for the body's metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a condition caused by low levels of thyroid hormone in the body. The thyroid gland responds by getting larger and forming a goiter. This may allow it to make enough thyroid hormone.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Goiter is seen most often in people who:

are female

eat large amounts of certain foods such as cabbage, peanuts, peaches, and spinach

have a family history of goiter

have too little iodine in their diet

take certain medicines, such as lithium, iodides, and cobalt

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		Goiter: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
Date Reviewed: 08/13/01

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