THYROID

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck.

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland, meaning it is responsible for production of hormones, in particular thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone regulates all of the body’s activities including energy production.

Hyperthyroidism is the presence of too much thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism is the presence of too little thyroid hormone.

The thyroid gland may develop masses including thyroid nodules, cysts, and even cancer. Thyroid masses may be palpable through the skin, or noted on ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.

The parathyroid glands are adjacent to the thyroid gland and regulate calcium absorption.