Kilpirauhasesiintymä

Kilpirauhasesiintymä, often referred to as a thyroid nodule, is a discrete lump or growth within the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located at the base of the neck, responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. Most thyroid nodules are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, a small percentage can be malignant.

The exact cause of many thyroid nodules is unknown. Factors such as iodine deficiency, a history of radiation exposure to the neck, and certain genetic predispositions may increase the risk. Nodules can vary significantly in size, from microscopic to several centimeters. They can be solitary or occur in multiples, forming a multinodular goiter.

Many thyroid nodules are asymptomatic and are often discovered incidentally during routine physical examinations or imaging tests performed for other reasons. When symptoms do occur, they may include a palpable lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing if the nodule is large and presses on the esophagus or trachea, or hoarseness if it affects the vocal cords. Some nodules can produce excess thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism, characterized by symptoms like weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, thyroid function tests to assess hormone levels, and ultrasound of the neck to visualize the nodule's characteristics. Further evaluation, such as fine-needle aspiration biopsy, may be performed to determine if the nodule is cancerous. Treatment depends on the nature of the nodule, ranging from observation for benign nodules to medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery for cancerous or symptomatic nodules.