Endocrinology & Diabetes

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders affect the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland within the front of the neck. Different types of thyroid disorders affect either its structure or function. The thyroid uses iodine to supply vital hormones. Thyroxine, also referred to as T4, is that the primary hormone produced by the gland. After delivery via the bloodstream to the body's tissues, alittle portion of the T4 released from the gland is converted to triiodothyronine (T3), which is that the most active hormone. The function of the thyroid gland is regulated by a feedback mechanism involving the brain. When hormone levels are low, the hypothalamus within the brain produces a hormone referred to as thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) that causes the pituitary to release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid to release more T4. Since the thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary and hypothalamus, disorders of those tissues also can affect thyroid function and cause thyroid problems.

· Goiter

· Hyperthyroidism

· Hypothyroidism

· Thyroid cancer

· Thyroid nodules

·         Thyroiditis