thyroid nodule The thyroid is located in the front of the neck, just below the Adam's apple, and is shaped like a butterfly. It is the largest endocrine gland in the human body. The thyroid gland secretes thyroid hormones, which play a crucial role in growth, development, and metabolism. Thyroid nodules are very common, and in most cases, they are not serious and do not cause any symptoms. In clinical practice, the progression of thyroid nodules to thyroid cancer is relatively rare.

The thyroid is located in the front of the neck, below the Adam's apple, and is shaped like a butterfly. It is the largest endocrine gland in the human body. The thyroid gland secretes thyroid hormones, which play an important role in human growth, development, and metabolism. Thyroid nodules (TNs) are abnormal growths of thyroid cells that form nodules in the thyroid tissue. The American Thyroid Association (ATA) defines thyroid nodules as discrete lesions in the thyroid that can be observed through imaging studies and have distinct borders compared to normal thyroid tissue. Thyroid nodules can present as a single nodule or multiple nodules, and their texture can be solid (composed of solid tissue) or cystic (filled with fluid). Imaging techniques such as ultrasound (US), CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) can determine their size and type. Thyroid nodules are very common, and most of them are not serious and do not cause any symptoms. In clinical practice, the progression of thyroid nodules to thyroid cancer is relatively rare.

Benign and Malignant

Thyroid nodules can be classified as benign or malignant based on their severity. Benign thyroid nodules are predominantly nodular goiter and thyroid adenomas, which are mostly safe and can usually be observed, while adenoma surgery can be curative. Malignant thyroid nodules are mostly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, requiring surgical treatment, with the majority being curable. Advanced lesions require aggressive comprehensive treatment to prevent distant metastasis.

Solid and Cystic

Thyroid nodules can be categorized as solid or cystic based on their texture. Solid nodules are characterized by tissue overgrowth and are the main types of adenomas and carcinomas. Cystic nodules contain fluid, and some may experience intracystic bleeding, leading to localized pain in patients.

Hot and Cold Nodules

Nodules are classified as "hot" or "cold" based on their ability to take up radioactive isotopes. "Hot nodules" are autonomous thyroid nodules with endocrine function, which are usually benign. "Cold nodules" lack endocrine function and may indicate a possibility of cancer. Additionally, nodules with hemorrhage or cystic changes may also present as "cold nodules."

Family History

Thyroid nodules are associated with genetics. Research indicates that due to defects in inherited enzymes, there is a disruption in hormone synthesis, preventing the release of thyroid hormones from thyroglobulin into the bloodstream. This congenital defect is a form of latent inheritance.

Iodine Deficiency

Iodine plays a critical role in thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. Insufficient intake of iodine can lead to abnormal thyroid hormone levels in the body, posing a risk factor for thyroid nodules.

Excessive Proliferation of Normal Thyroid Tissue

The cause of excessive proliferation is not yet clear, but it is suspected to be a precursor symptom of thyroid adenomas. However, there is no need for excessive concern as thyroid adenomas are benign and generally do not have serious consequences unless they reach a size that affects the quality of life.

Pain

In most cases, patients do not experience any symptoms, but some may experience pain around the nodules, as well as a sensation of a lump in the throat and pressure.

Swelling

Some advanced patients may experience swelling in the neck.

Compression Symptoms

When nodules compress surrounding tissues, symptoms such as hoarseness, a sensation of a lump in the throat, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing may occur.

Hormone-Related Symptoms

Patients with hyperthyroidism may experience palpitations, sweating, tremors, and weight loss, while those with hypothyroidism may experience cold intolerance and overall weakness.

General monitoring indicators include changes in heart rate and pulse, measuring the patient's morning heart rate and blood pressure, and closely monitoring changes in basal metabolism.

Patients receiving drug therapy

These patients need to focus on monitoring thyroid hormone levels. It is recommended to check for any abnormal swelling in the neck in the morning upon waking. Additionally, gently touch the skin surface of the nodule to check for pain and a sensation of pressure in the throat. If everything is normal, there is no need to worry. If the above symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical help promptly.

Postoperative patients

Patients after surgery need to monitor the condition of the surgical wound at home. They should watch for signs of infection or purulent breakdown of the wound. Generally, such postoperative complications are rare, but efforts should be made to create a relatively clean living and working environment for the patient, away from dust and sources of infection.

Patients requiring long-term medication after surgery

These patients are typically those who have undergone extensive thyroid resection. During the recovery period, it is important to monitor the second type of monitoring mentioned above to prevent wound infection. After the recovery period, it is necessary to monitor their own thyroid levels. Although there may be a lack of accurate monitoring instruments at home, judgment can be made based on changes in one's emotions and physical sensations. If one experiences overall weakness, lymph node enlargement, dizziness, or other discomfort, it is important to promptly contact a doctor. While sometimes these symptoms may be due to other illnesses such as a cold, they should not be easily dismissed.

Regular Routine: Avoid disrupting the body's circadian rhythm, which can cause further growth of nodules.

Emotional Stability: Avoid excessive excitement and sadness, which can affect thyroid hormone levels.

Diet: Patients with thyroid nodules need to ensure a reasonable intake of iodine.

Diet Recommendations: Adequate Caloric Intake: One of the complications of thyroid nodules is hyperthyroidism, where the nodules secrete excessive thyroid hormones, leading to elevated hormone levels and symptoms of hyperthyroidism. One of these symptoms is an accelerated metabolic rate, resulting in rapid energy consumption.

Reasonable Iodine Intake: Consume iodine-rich foods such as seaweed and other sea products. Iodine is an important component for synthesizing thyroxine. Providing the patient with an appropriate amount of iodine compounds can increase thyroid hormone storage and reduce release. However, excessive iodine intake can affect antithyroid treatment and harm the patient.

Dietary Restrictions: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and other cancer risk factors, which can trigger the transformation of thyroid nodules into cancer.

Avoiding Exposure to Radiation Sources

Apart from specific occupations, it is advisable to minimize the use of induction cookers and microwave ovens at home and to live away from signal transmission towers.