Nodular Nontoxic Goiter

A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid. The thyroid is an endocrine gland that produces hormones that help regulate your bodys metabolism. It is located on the front of the neck, right below the Adams apple. Goiters are seldom painful and tend to grow slowly. There are different types of goiters. A nontoxic (or sporadic) goiter is a type of simple goiter that may be diffuse (enlarging the whole thyroid gland) or nodular (enlargement caused by nodules, or lumps, on the thyroid.) The development of nodules marks a progression of the goiter and should be evaluated by your doctor. Goiter (Enlargement of the Thyroid Gland)

Causes
The exact causes of nontoxic goiter are not known. In general, goiters may be caused by underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones. However, a nontoxic goiter is usually characterized by normal thyroid function. Some possible causes of nontoxic goiter include:

>Heredity (family history of goiters) >Regular intake of substances (goitrogens) that inhibit production of thyroid hormone Some common goitrogens include foods such as cabbage, turnips, brussel sprouts, seaweed, and millet. >Iodine deficiencyIodine deficiency is very rare in the US and other developed countries, due to the use of iodized table salt. However, iodine deficiency is a primary cause of goiter in other parts of the world, particularly in mountainous areas, or areas that experience heavy rainfall or flooding.

Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase your chance of developing nontoxic goiter.

>Sex: female (Nontoxic goiter is more common in women than men.) >Age: over 40 years

If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:

>Family history of goiter >History of radiation therapy to head or neck, especially during childhood

Symptoms
Nontoxic goiters usually do not produce noticeable symptoms. However, if you experience any of the symptoms below, do not assume it is due to nontoxic goiter. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If these symptoms persist, see your physician.

Swelling on the neck Breathing difficulties, coughing, or wheezing with large goiter Difficulty swallowing with large goiter Feeling of pressure on the neck Hoarseness

Pathophysiology
Predisposing factor Precipitating factor

Sex : Female Age: 40 yrs. old

Hypothyroidism Diet: Allergic bagoong and shrimps

Inadequate dietary iodine

Thyroid gland cannot secrete inadequate thyroid hormone

Thyroid gland compensate to maintain the equilibrium

Thyroid attempts to produce large amount of hormone

Enlargement of the thyroid (Goiter)

Enlarging of thyroid gland compressing adjacent tissues

Dysphagia, Hoarseness of voice