Thyroid pathology and the globus symptom: are they related? A two year prospective trial

The globus sensation is a constant feeling of a lump in the throat and may be associated with thyroid enlargement. A two year prospective study was set up to ascertain the relationship between thyroid pathology and globus symptoms.

All patients undergoing thyroid surgery over a two year period were included. Patients were questioned pre- and post-operatively. Globus symptom scores were recorded using a visual analogue scale. The size, weight and histological features of the removed specimens were correlated and statistical analysis performed.

Two hundred patients were included in the study; 58 were symptomatic for globus pharyngeus pre-operatively, and 80 per cent of these patients' symptoms resolved post-operatively (p < or = 0.0001). Patients with histological features of inflammation showed the greatest improvement (p < or = 0.0001).

As many as one-third of patients with a thyroid mass will complain of a globus-like symptom. Patients undergoing thyroid surgery, who are symptomatic for globus pharyngeus, can expect that their symptoms will improve following surgery.