Struma
(Redirected from Strumae)
Struma is a term used in medicine to describe an enlargement of the thyroid gland. This condition is also commonly known as a goiter. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones.
Types of Struma[edit | edit source]
Struma can be classified into several types based on its cause and characteristics:
- Simple Goiter: Also known as non-toxic goiter, this type occurs without any underlying thyroid dysfunction. It is often caused by iodine deficiency.
- Toxic Goiter: This type is associated with hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Examples include Graves' disease and toxic multinodular goiter.
- Nodular Goiter: This type involves the presence of nodules within the thyroid gland. It can be further classified into solitary nodular goiter and multinodular goiter.
- Congenital Goiter: This type is present at birth and can be due to genetic factors or maternal iodine deficiency during pregnancy.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The causes of struma can vary widely and include:
- Iodine Deficiency: The most common cause worldwide, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones and compensatory thyroid enlargement.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease can lead to thyroid enlargement.
- Genetic Factors: Certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to thyroid enlargement.
- Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland can cause temporary or permanent enlargement.
- Neoplasms: Benign or malignant tumors of the thyroid gland can lead to its enlargement.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of struma can vary depending on the underlying cause and the size of the goiter. Common symptoms include:
- Visible swelling at the base of the neck
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, depending on thyroid function
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of struma typically involves:
- Physical Examination: Palpation of the neck to assess the size and consistency of the thyroid gland.
- Blood Tests: Measurement of thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to evaluate the size and structure of the thyroid gland.
- Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: To assess the nature of any nodules and rule out malignancy.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The treatment of struma depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Options include:
- Iodine Supplementation: For goiters caused by iodine deficiency.
- Medications: Antithyroid drugs for hyperthyroidism or thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: To shrink the thyroid gland in cases of hyperthyroidism.
- Surgery: Thyroidectomy may be necessary for large goiters causing compressive symptoms or for suspected malignancy.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Thyroid gland
- Goiter
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Graves' disease
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis
- Thyroiditis
- Thyroidectomy
Categories[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD