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Goiter

Goiter

Goiter refers to an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland that may appear as a diffuse goiter (uniform enlargement) or nodular (single or multiple nodules). Functionally, it is classified as nontoxic (normal/low hormone levels) or toxic (excess hormone production).PathophysiologyDiffuse thyroid enlargement typically results from prolonged stimulation by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or TSH-like agents, commonly seen in hypothyroidism or iodine deficiency. In contrast, in hyperthyroid...

The Thyroid Gland

The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck and covers the anterior surface of the trachea. The gland has two lateral lobes connected by a thin tissue mass called the isthmus. Internally, each lobe comprises many small spherical structures known as thyroid follicles, surrounded by a network of blood vessels.
The follicles have a central cavity lined by simple cuboidal to squamous epithelial cells called follicular cells. These cells produce the glycoprotein...

Functions of Thyroid Hormones

Functions of Thyroid Hormones

The thyroid hormone (TH) plays a pivotal role in the intricate orchestration of physiological processes, exerting profound effects on development, metabolism, and homeostasis throughout different life stages.
TH is indispensable for the normal development and maturation of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems during fetal and childhood growth. It facilitates bone mineral turnover and regulates protein synthesis in developing tissues, contributing significantly to overall growth and...

Synthesis and Regulation of Thyroid Hormones

Synthesis and Regulation of Thyroid Hormones

Low blood levels of the thyroid hormones — triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) — signal the hypothalamus to release the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). TRH then reaches the pituitary gland and stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH) into the bloodstream.
Upon reaching the thyroid gland, TSH stimulates the follicular cells' active uptake of iodide ions from the blood. The ions diffuse to the apical surface of the cells and are oxidized to iodine. The iodine is then...

Hyperthyroidism II: Pathophysiology

Hyperthyroidism II: Pathophysiology

Hyperthyroidism is a hypermetabolic state caused by elevated levels of thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). It results from dysregulation at the thyroid, pituitary, or immune system level and affects multiple organ systems.PathophysiologyThe most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies, specifically thyroid-stimulating antibodies (TSAb), a subtype of TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), bind to and activate TSH receptors...

Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology

Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) that activate TSH receptors, leading to excessive synthesis and release of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and resulting in hyperthyroidism.Among all causes of hyperthyroidism, Graves’ disease is the most common and can happen at any age, though it is more frequent in women. It produces a hypermetabolic state with features such as weight loss, tachycardia, tremor, and heat...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 21, 2026

An Ex vivo Culture System to Study Thyroid Development

An Ex vivo Culture System to Study Thyroid Development

Published on: June 6, 2014

[The thyroid one and goiter through the ages].

Jean-Paul Chigot

Histoire Des Sciences Medicales

|July 8, 2009

Summary

Goitres have a long history, often misdiagnosed until the thyroid gland

Area of Science:

Endocrinology and Medical History
Explores the historical evolution of understanding thyroid disorders.

Context:

Goitres have been documented for millennia, yet their true nature was obscured by confusion with other neck conditions like scrofula and tumors.
The thyroid gland's discovery and functional elucidation occurred relatively recently in medical history, during the Renaissance and late 19th century, respectively.

Purpose:

To trace the historical trajectory of goitre recognition and treatment.
To highlight the diagnostic challenges and evolving therapeutic strategies for thyroid enlargement throughout history.

Summary:

Historical records and art indicate goitres existed for thousands of years, but were frequently misidentified.
The thyroid gland was identified during the Renaissance, with its function understood by the late 19th century.

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Generation of a Mouse Spontaneous Autoimmune Thyroiditis Model

Generation of a Mouse Spontaneous Autoimmune Thyroiditis Model

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Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter

Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter

Published on: September 20, 2024

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 21, 2026

An Ex vivo Culture System to Study Thyroid Development

An Ex vivo Culture System to Study Thyroid Development

Published on: June 6, 2014

Generation of a Mouse Spontaneous Autoimmune Thyroiditis Model

Generation of a Mouse Spontaneous Autoimmune Thyroiditis Model

Published on: March 17, 2023

Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter

Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter

Published on: September 20, 2024

Early treatments included seaweed and sponge ashes, with surgical interventions emerging only a century ago, significantly advancing thyroid physiology knowledge.

Impact:

Provides a historical perspective on the diagnostic and therapeutic journey of goitre.
Underscores the contributions of early thyroid surgeons to understanding gland physiology.
Emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis in managing cervical pathologies.