Nontoxic goiter-diffuse or nodular.

Nontoxic goiters are very common. A single hyperfunctioning nodule is never malignant. Treatment is required only if the patient is hyperthyroid. Most single hypofunctioning thyroid nodules are cool and most are benign; however, it is important to rule out malignancy. The presence of microcalcification is consistent with psammoma bodies and the presence of papillary cancer of the thyroid. An elevated plasma calcitonin level with a further increase in calcitonin after calcium infusion is usually characteristic of medullary cancer of the thyroid. Needle biopsy of the thyroid is recommended when an experienced surgeon and pathologist are available. The treatment of benign thyroid lesions may include a trial of fully suppressive doses of thyroxine.