INDICATIONS FOR REMOVAL OF NONTOXIC NODULAR GOITERS

Abstract

In recent years the widespread publicity given to the subjects of cancer detection and prevention, the emphasis on periodic physical examinations and the development of cancer detection centers has resulted in an increased cancer consciousness in the population at large and in the medical profession. Therefore, physicians are being consulted oftener regarding the potential malignancy of benign lesions. Notable among these are nontoxic nodular goiters. Few physicians would deny that firm discrete adenomas of the thyroid should be removed. The controversial question is whether to advise removal of soft nontoxic nodular enlargements of the thyroid. Many of these goiters are not enlarging or causing symptoms, and the patients often are unaware of their presence until they are found on a routine physical examination. EXPLANATION OF THE HIGH REPORTED INCIDENCE OF CARCINOMA OF THE THYROID There