Content:
- The mechanism of development of hyperplasia
- Signs of hyperplasia
- Diagnosis of hyperplasia
- Treatment
- Prevention of hyperplasia
Hyperplasia of the thyroid gland in children ranks first among all pathologies of the endocrine system. Hyperplasia is characterized by an enlarged thyroid gland due to a number of different reasons. Congenital diseases can lead to the most serious consequences and affect the condition of the child, so you need to diagnose the disease in time and treat it.
The mechanism of development of hyperplasia
Hyperplasia is a benign mass that occurs on the side of the neck. In a normal state, the thyroid gland produces hormones important and necessary for the human body: iodothyronine and calcitonin. They take part in metabolic processes and regulate the work of many organs and systems, therefore any disruption of its work directly affects health.
Various factors provoke an increase in the gland:
- lack of iodine in the body;
- hereditary factor;
- bad ecology;
- radiation exposure.
If there is a lack of iodine in the diet, then in such cases the thyroid gland increases in order to receive iodine from the blood. Excess hormones can also lead to enlargement of the gland or the appearance of nodules.
Signs of hyperplasia
The most important and first sign of thyroid hyperplasia in children is its unnatural increase. Over time, this cosmetic defect leads to compression of adjacent organs and tissues (trachea), which can affect respiratory function. At the same time, there are difficulties with swallowing food. An endocrinologist can determine the presence of formation or enlargement of the gland in a child.
Types of diseases:
- Goiter: can be acquired, simple, toxic, or juvenile. Most often occurs in girls as a result of the action of antibodies that stimulate the proliferation of glandular cells.
- Thyroiditis: caused by gram-positive bacteria: streptococci, staphylococci. It is characterized by pain and swelling in the thyroid gland. A puncture is taken to make a diagnosis.
- Hypothyroidism: It occurs in children against the background of thyroiditis and can lead to various neurological disorders and other pathologies.
- Thyrotoxicosis: appears due to increased metabolism or against the background of toxic goiter. Women get sick several times more often than men.
Diagnosis of hyperplasia
To detect hyperplasia of the thyroid gland in a child, a hormonal examination is necessary. In addition to clinical examination, instrumental and laboratory examination methods are also prescribed. The patient’s behavior in the team, his school performance, age and development are taken into account. To determine the severity of the disease and the degree of damage to the gland, you can use an ultrasound examination.
Treatment
Treatment of hyperplasia in children is carried out with the help of hormonal drugs, drugs and iodine preparations. They are appointed after a complete examination of the patient.
If the desired effect cannot be achieved with the help of hormonal drugs, then surgical treatment is recommended. In the surgical method of treatment, the completely affected area of the gland and, if necessary, the surrounding tissues and organs are removed.
Prevention of hyperplasia
The most basic method of preventing hyperplasia in children is the systematic use of iodine, for example, iodized salt. It is necessary to monitor the general condition of the child, periodically carry out examinations and promptly treat chronic or infectious diseases. At the first signs of the disease, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor in order to cure the disease at the very first stages of its development.