Thyroid adenoma

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| 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 |
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]