Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Which type of goiter produces an excess of thyroid hormone but is considered non-toxic?

1. Multinodular goiter

2. Simple goiter

3. Non-toxic glandular goiter

4. Hashimoto's thyroiditis

The correct answer is: Non-toxic glandular goiter

The correct option signifies a type of goiter characterized by the production of excess thyroid hormone while being labeled as non-toxic. Non-toxic glandular goiter refers to a condition where the thyroid gland is enlarged due to a variety of reasons, commonly including iodine deficiency or increased stimulation from thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) without causing the detrimental effects typically associated with hyperthyroidism. In this context, "non-toxic" indicates that, despite the increase in thyroid hormone production, the levels do not lead to the clinical manifestations or adverse effects seen in toxic forms of goiter. This differentiation is important in understanding the physiological implications of thyroid growth and hormone levels. Other types like multinodular goiter can also produce excess hormones, but often they can cause symptoms and complications associated with hyperthyroidism, thus not fitting the “non-toxic” description. Simple goiter usually implies a lack of sufficient hormone production, leading to hypothyroid features. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is primarily an autoimmune condition that typically leads to hypothyroidism rather than hyperthyroidism, reinforcing the uniqueness of non-toxic glandular goiter in producing an excess of hormone without toxicity.