Multinodular goiter disease, a common condition, is characterized by soft nodules that grow slowly within the thyroid. As with other nodules, multinodular goiters are often asymptomatic. However, if they grow too large, they may compress the windpipe and cause difficulty breathing or swallowing. The treatment of choice for symptomatic multinodular goiter disease is surgery. To prevent future recurrences and a possible malignancy, both lobes of the thyroid may be removed. Although most multinodular goiters are noncancerous, the presence of a dominant nodule is cause for suspicion. A fine-needle biopsy can indicate whether there is a malignancy. As with all thyroid malignancies, treatment involves surgical removal of one or both lobes of the thyroid. Last Updated: 1/13/2003
The Johns Hopkins University 1996-2003. All rights reserved. This information is not intended to provide advice on personal medical matters, nor is it intended to be a substitute for consultation.
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