Struma

Struma is a term used in medicine to describe an enlargement of the thyroid gland. This condition is also commonly known as a goiter. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones.

Types of Struma

Struma can be classified into several types based on its cause and characteristics:

• Simple Goiter: Also known as non-toxic goiter, this type occurs without any underlying thyroid dysfunction. It is often caused by iodine deficiency.
• Toxic Goiter: This type is associated with hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Examples include Graves' disease and toxic multinodular goiter.
• Nodular Goiter: This type involves the presence of nodules within the thyroid gland. It can be further classified into solitary nodular goiter and multinodular goiter.
• Congenital Goiter: This type is present at birth and can be due to genetic factors or maternal iodine deficiency during pregnancy.

Causes

The causes of struma can vary widely and include:

• Iodine Deficiency: The most common cause worldwide, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones and compensatory thyroid enlargement.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease can lead to thyroid enlargement.
• Genetic Factors: Certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to thyroid enlargement.
• Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland can cause temporary or permanent enlargement.
• Neoplasms: Benign or malignant tumors of the thyroid gland can lead to its enlargement.

Symptoms

The symptoms of struma can vary depending on the underlying cause and the size of the goiter. Common symptoms include:

• Visible swelling at the base of the neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, depending on thyroid function

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of struma typically involves:

• Physical Examination: Palpation of the neck to assess the size and consistency of the thyroid gland.
• Blood Tests: Measurement of thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
• Imaging Studies: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to evaluate the size and structure of the thyroid gland.
• Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: To assess the nature of any nodules and rule out malignancy.

Treatment

The treatment of struma depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Options include:

• Iodine Supplementation: For goiters caused by iodine deficiency.
• Medications: Antithyroid drugs for hyperthyroidism or thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism.
• Radioactive Iodine Therapy: To shrink the thyroid gland in cases of hyperthyroidism.
• Surgery: Thyroidectomy may be necessary for large goiters causing compressive symptoms or for suspected malignancy.

Related Pages

• Thyroid gland
• Goiter
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Graves' disease
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis
• Thyroiditis
• Thyroidectomy

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