Multinodular Goitre

Endemic Goitre is an enlargement of the thyroid gland seen in more than 10% of population of certain geographic areas. It is caused by inadequate dietary intake of iodine leading to hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the thyroid. Initially the endemic goitre is diffuse enlargement of the gland, later it develops circumscribed nodules within it, hence named as ‘Endemic Multinodular Goitre’. Use of iodised salt is a prophylactic treatment. A large goitre may cause dysphagia, dyspnoea, tracheal deviation, and cosmetic problems requiring surgical treatment (thyroidectomy).