Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Goiter

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Goiter

A goiter is the irregular growth of the thyroid gland.

Insight:

• The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck just below the Adam's apple.
• A goiter may be an overall enlargement of the thyroid or it may be the result of irregular cell growth that forms 1 or more lumps (nodules) in the thyroid.
• A goiter may be associated with no change in thyroid function or with an increase or decrease in thyroid hormones.
• The most common cause of goiters worldwide is a lack of iodine in the diet.
• In the United States, where the use of iodized salt is common, goiters are caused by conditions that change thyroid function or factors that affect thyroid growth.
• Symptoms may include fatigue, sensitivity to cold, sleepiness, dry skin, constipation, muscle weakness, and others.
• Risk factors may include being female, age, and family history of goiter.
• Treatment includes Levoxyl, Cytomel, Tapazole, which will increase or decrease the hormone levels, depending on the treatment plan chosen.

Sources:

Goiter - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

goiter image - Google Search