Diffuse toxic goiter is a disease that arises from hypertrophy and hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. The disease is accompanied by thyrotoxicosis. Individuals suffering from this condition typically exhibit weight loss, irritability, sweating. In Israel, both conservative and surgical treatment of diffuse toxic goiter are practiced.
Causes
The cause of the disease is disruptions in the immune system, which lead to the production of antibodies to TSH receptors that stimulate the gland. The consequence of such changes is an increase in thyroid tissue and an increase in hormone secretion. Over-saturation with these hormones accelerates metabolic reactions, thereby depleting energy reserves. The disease most commonly affects women aged 20 to 50 years.
Symptoms of Diffuse Toxic Goiter
Thyroid hormones affect many physiological processes. Therefore, in this disease, patients often complain of symptoms characteristic of cardiovascular disorders and endocrine ophthalmopathy. Patients exhibit tachycardia – at rest, it can reach 130 beats per minute, and pulse pressure increases. With prolonged disease progression, a person develops myocardial dystrophy. Its manifestations include extrasystole, respiratory arrhythmia, and susceptibility to pneumonia. Patients with diffuse toxic goiter typically experience significant weight loss (with normal appetite), weakness, and a feeling of heat.
Diagnosis of Diffuse Toxic Goiter in Israel
Establishing an accurate diagnosis in Israel involves a comprehensive set of diagnostic methods. For this purpose, not only the identified symptoms are used but also the results of tests, ultrasound examinations, and radioisotope tests. Laboratory tests examine changes in hormone levels in the blood. Ultrasound allows for the determination of thyroid gland enlargement compared to normal, as well as the identification of other pathologies.
Treatment of Diffuse Toxic Goiter in Israel
In the case of non-surgical treatment in Israel, antithyroid medications are prescribed. They have the property of accumulating in the gland and suppressing the production of thyroid hormones. In surgical treatment, almost complete removal of the gland is performed. Surgeries are indicated in cases where the patient is prone to allergic reactions to medications prescribed by the doctor, has a reduced level of leukocytes in the blood, or has serious cardiovascular system disorders.