Thyroid Disease

Enlargement of the thyroid gland is called goitre. This may be related to a diffuse enlargement of the whole gland or due to one or more nodules in the gland. Most thyroid nodules are benign, but all need assessment because some are due to serious conditions. Goitre may simply require monitoring but usually needs investigation with ultrasound scanning and needle biopsy testing. Rarely do goitres cause obstruction to breathing or swallowing difficulties.