Disorders

Thyroid Nodules and Goiter

A nodule is a lump of tissue in the thyroid gland. The gland may develop one or many nodules. Most of the time, nodules do not affect the production of thyroid hormone and do not cause symptoms. It may or may not be possible to feel thyroid nodules. Most nodules are benign, but on occasion, they can be malignant. A goiter is the enlargement of the whole thyroid gland. You may be able to see or feel a swelling in the neck. Goiters can develop from enlargement of the gland tissue or from the presence of multiple nodules.