Goiter: an approach to management.

The incidence of goiter (any swelling of the thyroid, either diffuse or localized) varies from five to ten percent in the adult population. Carcinoma of the thyroid is rare, occurring in approximately 2.5 per 100,000 population. The prognosis is generally good. Clinically patients usually present in one of four ways: goiter alone, goiter with pain, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. An approach to the management of this problem is presented, keeping these facts in mind.