Thyroid nodules are growth of the cells in the thyroid gland. It can be benign or malignant. They are mainly seen in adults and children. It appears as lump in throat which moves while swallowing. It is an abnormal growth of the thyroid gland.

 

Thyroid hormones are more common in women that in men. If the thyroid nodule is filled with fluid is called thyroid cyst. Most of the thyroid nodules are noncancerous. The thyroid nodules may be single or multiple. The thyroid gland containing multiple nodules are called multinodular goiter. The thyroid nodule can lead to either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

The features which indicate that the nodules are cancerous are:

• If the nodule is hard.
• The nodule which does not move and which is adherent to other structures.
• If there is any family history thyroid cancer.

• Hoarse voice due to paralysis of the vocal cord

• History of exposure of radiation to the head and neck.

Symptoms of thyroid nodules

• Nodule in the neck.
• Difficulty in breathing.
• Difficulty in swallowing.
• Goiter.

• Hoarseness or change in voice.

• Pain in neck, jaw or ear.

Diagnosis:

• Fine needle aspiration biopsy.
• Thyroid ultrasound.
• TSH levels.

• Thyroid function tests.

• Thyroid scan

Treatment

Thyroid nodules which are cancerous or suspicious of cancer is removed surgically. Thyroid nodule can also be reduced in size with thyroid hormones. Surgery is also advised if the nodule increases in size.