Bocio y enfermedad nodular tiroidea

Abstract

Goiter and thyroid nodular disease are very common conditions of the thyroid gland. Goiter refers to growth of the normal thyroid parenchyma and thyroid nodule when the growth is located in a delimited, distinguishable area of the normal parenchyma. Its etiology is diverse, although the etiopathogenesis is not entirely clear. There tend to be few symptoms and the diagnosis is usually made through incidental findings on imaging tests. When evaluating thyroid nodules, it is essential to conduct a glandular function analysis, with an initial screening by measuring thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and describing the gland and possible nodules by means of thyroid ultrasound. Ultrasonography allows for evaluating nodule characteristics and classifying them according to the risk of malignancy by means of EU-TIRADS. In case of asymptomatic goiter, observation and clinical monitoring can be carried out, reserving other interventions for cases with compression of neighboring structures. On the other hand, management of the nodules will depend on symptoms, EU-TIRADS ultrasound features, and the Bethesda histological classification (in case of puncture). Observation and ultrasound monitoring or an invasive approach can be chosen.