Reports in Endocrine Disorders: Open Access

Goiter is a swelling in the neck resulting from an enlarged thyroid gland. Goitre cases are caused by iodine deficiency.

The most common cause for goitre is iodine deficiency.

If the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormones (T3 ans T4), radioactive iodine is given to the patient to shrink the gland. If goitre is caused by iodine deficiency, small doses of iodide in the form of Lugols Iodine or KI solution are given. If the goitre is associated with an underactive thyroid, thyroid supplements are used as treatment. In extreme cases, a partial or complete thyroidectomy is required.