Kilpirauhaskasvain

Kilpirauhaskasvain, or thyroid tumor, refers to abnormal cell growth in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the neck. These growths can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumors are much more common than malignant ones. They often present as nodules, which are lumps within the thyroid.

The exact cause of most thyroid tumors is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified. These include exposure to radiation, particularly during childhood, a family history of thyroid cancer, and certain genetic conditions. In many cases, thyroid tumors are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during imaging studies for other conditions. When symptoms do occur, they can include a palpable lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or a sensation of pressure.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, ultrasound of the thyroid, blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels, and often a fine-needle aspiration biopsy to determine if the cells are benign or malignant. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the tumor. Benign nodules may be monitored or surgically removed if they cause symptoms or cosmetic concerns.

Malignant thyroid tumors, or thyroid cancer, are treated based on their specific type and extent. Common treatments include surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland, radioactive iodine therapy, and sometimes external beam radiation therapy or chemotherapy for more advanced cases. The prognosis for most thyroid cancers is generally good, especially for early-stage differentiated types.