Thyroid nodule
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| Thyroid nodule | |
|---|---|
| Classification and external resources | |
| ICD-9 | 241.0 |
| DiseasesDB | 5332 |
| eMedicine | med/3224 |
| MeSH | D016606 |
Thyroid nodules are lumps which commonly arise within an otherwise normal thyroid gland.[1]
Contents |
[edit] Presentation
Often these abnormal growths of thyroid tissue are located at the edge of the thyroid gland so they can be felt as a lump in the throat. When they are large or when they occur in very thin individuals, they can even sometimes be seen as a lump in the front of the neck.
[edit] Diagnosis
Thyroid nodules are extremely common in young adults and children. Almost 50% of people have had one, but they are usually only detected by a GP during the course of a health examination, or through a different affliction.
Needle aspiration biopsy can be used to assess the condition.[2]
[edit] Malignancy
Only a small percentage of lumps in the neck are malignant, and most thyroid nodules are benign.
There are many factors to consider when diagnosing a malignant lump.
If the patient is a smoker, the chances of malignancy are considerably higher. When coupled with difficulty swallowing or breathing, this may be a symptom of a serious condition and requires speedy medical attention.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
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