Thyroid enlargement, or goiter, refers to swelling of the thyroid gland located at the front of the neck. It may or may not affect thyroid function.

Causes

• Iodine deficiency (rare in regions with iodized salt)
• Autoimmune disorders:
• Hashimoto’s disease (hypothyroidism)
• Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism)
• Thyroid nodules
• Pregnancy-related hormonal changes
• Inflammation (thyroiditis)
• Medications (e.g., lithium, amiodarone)

Symptoms

• Visible swelling at the front of the neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Coughing or hoarseness
• Tightness in the neck
• Symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism in some cases

Diagnosis

• Physical examination
• Blood tests to assess thyroid function
• Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI)
• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy for suspicious nodules

Treatment

• Observation for small, asymptomatic goiters
• Thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism
• Anti-thyroid medications for hyperthyroidism
• Radioactive iodine therapy
• Surgery (partial or total thyroidectomy) for large goiters or nodules

Thyroid enlargement is often treatable, and the prognosis is favorable with timely and appropriate management.