Giant Euthyroid Goitre: Clinical Profile as Seen in Otorhinolaryngology Department of a Tertiary Health Institution, in Northwestern Nigeria

Background: Goiter refers to a diffuse enlargement of thyroid gland. It has a high prevalence in adult population in endemic areas where iodized salt is not part of the regular diet.

Aim: We report the clinical profile of giant goiters seen in a tertiary hospital in Northwestern Nigeria.

Methods: A prospective study of all surgically operated cases of goiter carried out in a tertiary health hospital in Northwestern Nigeria, over a period of 6 years between January 2011 and December 2016. Bio data, duration of goiter, symptoms, geographical location, thyroid function tests, radiological reports and treatment were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Ninety-Seven patients were operated for goitre during the study period. Out of these 19 (19.6%) were giant goitres weighing between 900g-3200g. There were 13 (68.4%) females and 6 (31.6%) males with M: F ratio of 1:2.2. Age range was between 39 – 71 years with a mean age of 53.2 years. Prevalence was high in the 41-60 year age group. Duration of goiter in 13 (68.4%) of patients was between 11-20years. Retrosternal extension was observed in 7 (36.8%) patients. Tracheal deviation was the most common risk factor for respiratory complication in all the patients followed by tracheomalacia in 8(42.1%). Postoperative temporary Tracheostomy was carried out in 4(21.1%) of patients. Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury occurred in 2(10.5%). No mortality was recorded.

Conclusion: Respiratory complications are commonly associated with giant goiters, a pathology that is entirely preventive if diagnosed and managed at an early stage.