The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck. It surrounds the trachea, or windpipe. A lump or nodule may develop in the thyroid gland. A solitary lump may be felt or multiple lumps may be felt. The nodules may be cysts, they can be the result of inflammation of the thyroid gland or they may represent benign or malignant tumors. All types of thyroid nodules are most common in people aged 40-60. they are more common in women. Benign tumors are unlikely to spread to other body parts, and are much more common. Malignant thyroid nodules can spread and can be fatal. There are three main types of thyroid cancer. They include papillary, follicular and medullary cancer. Over two thirds are papillary cancer. Papillary cancer most often spreads to the lymph nodes. Follicular cancer tends to spread to the lungs and the bones. Medullary cancer is rare and often associated with the inherited condition, multiple endocrine neoplasia.
Causes of Thyroid Nodule
Unknown.
Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Nodule
Thyroid nodules may produce no symptoms. A lump in the neck may be felt. If this is a cancerous lesion, it can spread to the lymph nodes of the neck, leading to other painless lumps in the neck. Swallowing difficulties and hoarseness can occur. If the nodule produces excess amounts of thyroid hormone, hyperthyroidism may occur. This can lead to agitation, shaking, sweating, rapid or irregular heart rate, intolerance to heat and weight loss, despite good appetite.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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