The thyroid gland is prone to several very distinct problems, some ofwhich are extremely common. These problems can be broken down into [1]those concerning the production of hormone (too much, or too little),[2] those due to increased growth of the thyroid causing compression ofimportant neck structures or simply appearing as a mass in the neck,[3] the formation of nodules or lumps within the thyroid which areworrisome for the presence of thyroid cancer, and [4] those which arecancerous.

• Goiters ~ A thyroid goiter is a dramaticenlargement of the thyroid gland. Goiters are often removed because ofcosmetic reasons or, more commonly, because they compress other vitalstructures of the neck including the trachea and the esophagus makingbreathing and swallowing difficult. Sometimes goiters will actuallygrow into the chest where they can cause trouble as well. Several nicex-rays will help explain all types of thyroid goiter problems.

• Thyroid Cancer ~Thyroid cancer is a fairly common malignancy the vast majority of whichhave excellent long term survival. We now include a separate page onthe characteristics of each type of thyroid cancer and its typicaltreatment, follow-up, and prognosis.

• Solitary Thyroid Nodules ~There are several characteristics of solitary nodules of the thyroidwhich make them suspicious for malignancy. Although as many as 50% ofthe population will have a nodule somewhere in their thyroid, theoverwhelming majority of these are benign. Occasionally, thyroidnodules can take on characteristics of malignancy and require either aneedle biopsy or surgical excision.

• Hyperthyroidism ~ Hyperthyroidismmeans too much thyroid hormone. Current methods used for treating ahyperthyroid patient are radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid drugs, orsurgery. Each method has advantages and disadvantages and is selectedfor individual patients. Many times the situation will suggest that allthree methods are appropriate, while other circumstances will dictate asingle best therapeutic option. Surgery is the least common treatmentselected for hyperthyroidism.

• Hypothyroidism ~Hypothyroidism means too little thyroid hormone and is a commonproblem. In fact, hypothyroidism is often present for a number of yearsbefore it is recognized and treated. There are several causes, but thenumber one reason for thyroid cancer patients and survivors isalteration or loss of thyroid function as a result of cancer or cancertreatment. Hypothyroidism can even be associated with pregnancy.Treatment for all types of hypothyroidism is usually straightforward.

• Thyroiditis ~Thyroiditis is an inflammatory process ongoing within the thyroidgland. Thyroiditis can present with a number of symptoms such as feverand pain, but it can also present as subtle findings of hypo orhyper-thyroidism.