| "> | | | | A thyroid "nodule" is a localized swelling within the |
| The term "thyroid nodule" refers to any abnormal | | | | thyroid gland. Of most concern is a single swelling, but |
| growth that forms a lump in the thyroid gland. The | | | | sometimes it is part of a "multinodular goitre" in which |
| thyroid gland is located low in the front of the neck, | | | | several such swellings are present. Multinodular goitre is |
| below the Adam's apple. The gland is shaped like a | | | | not uncommon in older people and often causes no |
| butterfly and wraps around the windpipe or trachea. | | | | symptoms. Single nodules are also common, affecting |
| The two wings or lobes on either side of the windpipe | | | | perhaps 5% of the population - although most of those |
| are joined together by a bridge, called the isthmus, | | | | affected are not aware that there is anything wrong |
| which crosses over the front of the windpipe. | | | | with their thyroid gland. |