The thyroid nodules are abnormal growth of the thyroid gland which leads to the formation of the lumps. These thyroid nodules are non-cancerous as well as cancerous at times. In many cases, the foremost concern after discovering thyroid nodules is to check them if they are cancerous or not. It has been observed that thyroid nodules occur in 1 out of 10 people. These nodules are as such not apparent and we come to know about them only when physician tells us as it is only in rare cases that the symptoms of the thyroid nodules are visible. The causes are not known for the existence of these nodules. There are various common causes known for the occurrence of thyroid nodules. Some of them are enlisted as under:

• Iodine deficiency: the deficiency of iodine in the diet leads to formation of these nodules.
• Hashimoto’s disease: it is an autoimmune disease which is known to cause hypothyroidism. It is also responsible for causing inflammation of the gland.
• Due to the genetic defects in the receptors known for releasing the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
• Due to the radiation therapy if undertaken at any stage of life, mainly childhood.

There are several types of thyroid nodules known to exist and are as follows:

• Colloidal nodules: they are the overgrowths of the thyroid gland and their number can vary from one to many. Their growth is limited to the thyroid gland and do not spread beyond it. They are non cancerous in nature.
• Follicular adenoma: they are also non cancerous in nature.
• Thyroid cysts: they are fluid filled sacs which vary from around 8mm to 25 mm in size diametrically. They may also have solid components in some cases and are usually benign but in severe cases they may be malignant.
• Inflammatory nodules: they occur because of enlargement of the thyroid gland. They sometimes are accompanied with pain.
• Thyroid cancer: in case the nodules are malignant and if in family history endocrine cancer is prevalent.
• Multinodular goiter: goiter may occur due to the presence of a number of thyroid nodules.
• Hyper functioning thyroid nodules: in this case the thyroid hormones are released not from the action of thyroid stimulating hormone but on their own. They are generally caused due to genetic defects.

After the symptoms like difficulty in swallowing, harshness of voice etc. are visible one should see a doctor and get the diagnosis done for the existing thyroid nodules. The diagnosis of the nodules can be done as follows:

• By making the patient swallow as the movement of the nodule would be clearly visible.
• By doing imaging testing like ultrasound, CT scan etc.
• By undergoing blood test as it checks for the levels of the thyroid hormones in the body.
• By doing fine needle aspiration biopsy it is useful for distinguishing a malignant nodule from a benign nodule.
• Ultra sonography
• Thyroid scan.

After the diagnosis is completed the treatment of the thyroid nodules can be done as follows:

• By undergoing thyroid tests again and again and watching for the results
• Hormone suppression therapy involves the treatment of the nodule with Levothyroxine
• Radioactive iodine
• Surgery

Although, the thyroid nodules are not harmful still a thorough examination should be done at regular intervals and nature of the nodules should also be checked.