What are the causes of goitre and is it curable

 
Goitre refers to an enlarged thyroid gland. The thyroid is a gland situated on the Adam’s apple in the front of the neck. There are several causes of goitre. The commonest cause of goitre is hypothyroidism. In this condition, there is a deficiency of Thyroxine, which is a hormone secreted by the thyroid. This causes the thyroid to increase in size to compensate for the deficiency. The commonest cause of hypothyroidism is Iodine deficiency. Hypothyroidism can be corrected by giving the patient tablets of Thyroxine. Iodine deficiency can be corrected by addition of Iodine to the diet. In several countries this is achieved by fortifying table salt with Iodine. In long standing goitres, the size of the thyroid gland may not reduce even after correction of the deficiency, and surgery may be required.

There are several other conditions that can cause an enlargement of the thyroid gland, including inflammation, infection, and tumours. A careful evaluation is required before diagnosis and appropriate treatment.