Endemic goitre

An overview of endemic goitre, its causes, symptoms, and prevention

Endemic Goitre

A patient with a large goitre

Endemic goitre is a type of goitre that occurs in certain geographical areas where the diet is deficient in iodine. It is characterized by an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can lead to visible swelling in the neck.

Causes

The primary cause of endemic goitre is iodine deficiency. Iodine is an essential element required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are crucial for regulating metabolism. In regions where the soil and water have low iodine content, the local population may not receive adequate iodine through their diet, leading to thyroid gland enlargement as it attempts to compensate for the lack of hormone production.

Symptoms

The most noticeable symptom of endemic goitre is the swelling of the neck due to the enlarged thyroid gland. Other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing if the goitre is large enough to compress the esophagus or trachea.
• Symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance, if the thyroid gland is unable to produce sufficient hormones.
• In some cases, symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as weight loss, increased heart rate, and nervousness, if the gland becomes overactive.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of endemic goitre typically involves:

• Physical examination to assess the size and texture of the thyroid gland.
• Blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
• Ultrasound imaging to evaluate the structure of the thyroid gland.
• In some cases, a thyroid scan using radioactive iodine may be performed to assess the gland's function.

Prevention and Treatment

Goitre can be prevented with adequate iodine intake

Prevention of endemic goitre primarily involves ensuring adequate iodine intake. This can be achieved through:

• Iodization of salt, which is a common public health measure to prevent iodine deficiency.
• Dietary diversification to include iodine-rich foods such as fish, dairy products, and eggs.

Treatment of existing goitre may include:

• Iodine supplementation to correct the deficiency.
• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy if hypothyroidism is present.
• Surgery in cases where the goitre is large and causes compressive symptoms or cosmetic concerns.

Related pages

• Thyroid gland
• Iodine deficiency
• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism