pediatrics
Congenital Goiter
Symptoms and Signs of Congenital Goiter
The most common manifestation of congenital goiter is firm, symmetric, nontender enlargement of the thyroid. Enlargement is most often diffuse but can be nodular. It may be noticeable at birth or detected later. In some patients, enlargement is not directly observable, but continued growth can cause deviation or compression of the trachea, compromising breathing and swallowing. Many children with goiters are euthyroid, but some present with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. 