THE THYROID GLAND
The thyroid gland is our endocrine organ, located on the right and left sides of the trachea, with a size of 20×30 mm and a weight of 15-20 grams, synthesizing the hormones T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine). The iodine element is used in the production of thyroid hormone: T3 is numbered because it contains 3 iodine elements and T4: 4 iodine elements. T4 is distributed throughout the body through the blood circulation. Before entering the cell, it takes a role in metabolism by transforming into T3. The hormone production of the thyroid gland is controlled by TSH (Thyroid stimulating hormone) secreted from the pituitary gland in the brain.
DISEASES OF THE THYROID Gland
Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland
Nodule: Formation of tissue in the thyroid gland, ranging from mm to cm in size, different from normal tissue
Thyroiditis: Thyroid gland growth mostly non-microbial inflammatory reaction
Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid gland
Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland
RISK OF DEVELOPING THYROID DISEASE
• Those living in areas with iodine deficiency
• Those with family history of thyroid disease
• Those with autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 DM, Rheumatoid arthritis and Pernicious anemia
• Pregnancy and postpartum period
• Those who received radiotherapy to the head and neck region for various reasons
• Those who use iodine-containing drugs such as lithium and amiodarone
• Those who use drugs that cause autoimmune reactions such as interferon
FOR DIAGNOSIS OF THYROID:
1. Hormone measurement: Venous blood sample is taken between 08-17:00, regardless of hunger or satiety. According to the reference ranges given by the laboratory, if T3-T4 is normal or low and TSH is high, the thyroid gland is considered underactive. If T3-T4 is normal or high and TSH is low, the thyroid gland is considered overworked.
2. Autoantibody measurement: High anti thyroid peroxidase (AntiTPO) and Anti thyroglobulin (Anti Tg) measurements indicate that the body reacts against the thyroid gland; indicates an autoimmune disease.
3. Thyroid ultrasonography: The permeability of sound waves through the tissue is calculated, the size of the thyroid gland, whether there is a nodule; If there is, its structure and properties are evaluated.
4. Thyroid scintigraphy: It gives information about the thyroid gland activity according to the rate of retention in the thyroid gland after the radioactive substance is given. It is not done during pregnancy and lactation.
5. Thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsy: It is applied in all nodules detected by ultrasonography and over 1 cm. Without anaesthesia, a small amount of fluid is taken with a fine needle in a simple procedure and examined pathologically. If it is not enough, it can be repeated within 3 months.
