Difference Between Goitre and Thyroid Cancer

1. Difference Between Goitre and Thyroid Cancer My advice would be that you don’t self-diagnose at all and leave the whole situation in the hands of a specialist. But if you want to get familiar with goiter and thyroid cancer just for the sake of common knowledge, here’s a brief description for the two diseases: Goiter Goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be located right below the larynx (more commonly known as the Adam’s Apple). It requires a proper medical diagnosis with specific lab tests to confirm that the enlargement is, in fact, a result of Goitre. This abnormality usually develops as a result of iodine deficiency. The symptoms, of course, are pretty self-explanatory. However, other than the excessive swelling of the neck, there’s really no other way to tell if you indeed have Goitre unless you get it thoroughly diagnosed. Thyroid Cancer As the name pretty much sums it up, Thyroid cancer is cancer developed in the thyroid gland. Again, self-diagnosis of thyroid cancer, or any type of cancer for that matter, is out of the question. In fact, sometimes, it doesn’t even show any symptom at all, but in some cases, there’s a noticeable lump that can be observed right around the region where the thyroid gland is located. Fortunately, thyroid cancer can be fully cured. The treatment usually involves radioactive iodine therapy, chemotherapy, and in a few cases, removal of the thyroid gland. If you’re showing any signs of these two diseases, quickly consult an endocrinologist near you.