Thyroid adenoma

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Thyroid adenoma
File:Thyroid adenoma.jpg
Thyroid adenoma
Synonyms Follicular adenoma
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Nodule in the thyroid gland, possible hyperthyroidism
Complications Rarely, thyroid cancer
Onset Typically in adults
Duration Variable
Types N/A
Causes Unknown, possibly genetic factors
Risks Radiation exposure, family history
Diagnosis Ultrasound, fine needle aspiration biopsy
Differential diagnosis Thyroid cancer, multinodular goiter
Prevention N/A
Treatment Surgery, radioactive iodine
Medication Thyroid hormone suppression therapy
Prognosis Generally good with treatment
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


File:Causes of hyperthyroidism.png
Causes of hyperthyroidism
File:Short Gamma-Ray Burst.jpg
Short Gamma-Ray Burst

Thyroid adenoma is a type of benign tumor or non-cancerous growth that can develop in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism.

Types[edit]

There are several types of thyroid adenomas, including:

  • Follicular adenoma: This is the most common type of thyroid adenoma. It is composed of small, follicular cells and is usually encapsulated, meaning it is contained within a thin layer of tissue.
  • Hürthle cell adenoma: This type of adenoma is composed of Hürthle cells, which are a type of cell found in the thyroid gland. Hürthle cell adenomas are less common than follicular adenomas.
  • Papillary adenoma: This is a rare type of thyroid adenoma. It is composed of papillary cells, which are a type of cell found in the thyroid gland.

Symptoms[edit]

Thyroid adenomas are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any symptoms. However, if the adenoma grows large enough, it can cause symptoms such as:

  • A lump in the neck
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis[edit]

Thyroid adenomas are usually discovered during a routine physical examination. If a lump is found in the thyroid gland, further tests may be performed to determine whether it is an adenoma or another type of growth. These tests may include:

  • Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create a picture of the thyroid gland and can help determine the size and location of the adenoma.
  • Fine-needle aspiration biopsy: During this procedure, a small sample of tissue is removed from the adenoma using a thin needle. The sample is then examined under a microscope to determine whether it is benign or malignant.
  • Thyroid scan: This test uses a small amount of radioactive material and a special camera to create a picture of the thyroid gland. It can help determine whether the adenoma is functioning (producing hormones) or non-functioning.

Treatment[edit]

The treatment for thyroid adenoma depends on the size of the adenoma and whether it is causing symptoms. Treatment options may include:

  • Observation: If the adenoma is small and not causing any symptoms, it may simply be monitored with regular ultrasound exams.
  • Surgery: If the adenoma is large or causing symptoms, it may need to be removed surgically.
  • Radioactive iodine therapy: This treatment uses radioactive iodine to shrink the adenoma. It is usually used for adenomas that are functioning.

See also[edit]