Guide To The Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid Cyst

An individual's thyroid nodules may exhibit cystic characteristics or may develop as a result of the presence of fluid-filled cysts in their thyroid gland. A non-cancerous growth only filled with fluid that forms in the thyroid gland is referred to as a thyroid cyst. A growth filled with both fluid and solid components that develops in an affected individual's thyroid gland is referred to as a complex thyroid nodule. The excess growth of thyroid tissue that has contributed to the development of an individual's existing cysts in their thyroid gland can also contribute to the production of solid thyroid nodules. Nodules in an individual's thyroid gland composed exclusively of fluid-filled cysts will typically present as benign and will remain benign. However, complex thyroid nodules composed of at least fifty percent solid components but also contain cysts are at the same increased risk of carcinogenesis as completely solid thyroid nodules.

Multinodular Goiter

An individual affected by thyroid nodules may experience a multinodular goiter as a complication of their thyroid abnormalities. Multinodular goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland that contains multiple thyroid nodules. The nodules that form a multinodular goiter may be small or large, and may or may not be malignant. A multinodular goiter can contain multiple solid nodules, multiple fluid-filled nodules, or a combination of both types of thyroid nodules. Individuals who develop a multinodular goiter due to an initial thyroid nodule may experience symptoms like the feeling of an object being stuck in the throat and one or more palpable lumps on the front of the neck. Individuals who have known thyroid nodules should undergo periodic screening to ensure if they develop a multinodular goiter, it is not precancerous and does not progress into a malignancy. Individuals who experience complications with the normal function of the windpipe, throat, and or esophagus may need to have surgery to remove the thyroid or reduce the size of the gland. A multinodular goiter also often means an affected individual has too much TSH in their blood promoting the growth of thyroid tissue. Medication to supply thyroid hormone is given to help reduce TSH levels.