Definition: A non-cancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland. The enlargement may be visible, especially as a swelling in the front of the neck.
Goiter can result from iodine deficiency, a viral or bacterial inflammation of the thyroid, autoimmune thyroid disease, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism,or nodules, among other causes.
Also Known As: struma
Alternate Spellings: goitre
