Thyroid pathology
GGC - Primary Care
Warning
Background: The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ located in the midline, low in the neck. Any lump of the thyroid gland with move on swallowing.
Figure – location of thyroid gland
Lumps of the thyroid gland can be tumours, diffuse goitre, multinodular goitre or thyroiditis
How to assess:
Palpate the thyroid gland and assess for movement on swallowing
Send TFTs – if abnormal, refer to endocrine
How to manage:
If the thyroid gland is diffusely swollen and tender, this indicates thyroiditis and should be managed symptomatically with NSAIDs and discussed with endocrinology if needed
Referral guidance:
If TFTs abnormal, refer to endocrinology in the first instance
Refer a person with a thyroid nodule, and one or more of the following features to the Head and Neck Service as a USC:
- Nodule rapidly increasing in size
- Associated unexplained hoarseness
- Associated cervical lymphadenopathy
- Previous neck irradiation
- Family history of endocrine tumours
- Person aged 16 years or under