Goiter

Treatment

A goiter only needs to be treated if it is causing symptoms.

Treatments for an enlarged thyroid include:

• Radioactive iodine to shrink the gland
• Surgery (thyroidectomy) to remove all or part of the gland
• Small doses of Lugol's iodine or potassium iodine solution if the goiter is due to iodine deficiency

Outlook (Prognosis)

A simple goiter may disappear on its own, or may become large. Over time, destruction to the thyroid may cause the gland to stop making enough thyroid hormone. This condition is called hypothyroidism.

Occasionally, a goiter may become toxic and produce thyroid hormone on its own. This can cause high levels of thyroid hormone, a condition called hyperthyroidism.

Possible Complications

• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism
• Thyroid cancer
• Toxic nodular goiter

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you experience any swelling in the front of your neck or any other symptoms of goiter.

References

Vanderpas J. Nutritional epidemiology and thyroid hormone metabolism. Ann Rev Nutr. 2006; 26:293-322.

AACE/AME. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and Associazione Medici Endocrinologi. Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice for the Diagnosis and Management of Thyroid Nodules. Endocr Pract. 2006 Jan-Feb;12(1):63-102.