Endemic goitre

Endemic goiter is a type of goitre that is associated with dietary iodine deficiency.[1][2]

Endemic goiter
A woman, probably from inland of Norway, with goiter, probably due to iodine deficiency.
SpecialtyEndocrinology 
SymptomsGoitre
CausesIodine deficiency

Cause

Some inland areas where soil and water lacks in iodine compounds and consumption of marine foods is low are known for higher incidence of goitre. In such areas goitre is said to be "endemic".

Prevention

This type of goiter is easily preventable. In most developed countries regulations have been put into force by health policy institutions requiring salt, flour or water to be fortified with iodine.

Treatment

Treatment of endemic goiter is medical with iodine and thyroxine preparations. Surgery is only necessary in cases where complicated by significant compression of nearby structures.

References

  1. "Endemic Goiter (Medical condition)". Encyclopedia of Britannica. Retrieved 24 September 2013.
  2. BA, Lamberg (1991). "Endemic Goitre—Iodine Deficiency Disorders". Annals of Medicine. 23 (4): 367–72. doi:10.3109/07853899109148075. PMID 1718324.
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