Pathophysiology and Management of Thyroid

The medical condition which affects the functioning of the thyroid gland is known as thyroid disease. Its diagnosis is obtained through blood tests, radioiodine scanning, ultrasound and biopsy. The activity of the thyroid gland can be determined by the measurement of the levels of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine, thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone in blood. In case of diseases, anti-thyroid antibodies may be detected in blood such as anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies, anti-thyroglobulin antibodies and TSH receptor antibodies. The detection of these can allow diagnosis of the specific condition. Radioactive iodine is used in thyroid scintigraphy to detect any irregularity in the size of the gland and determine its activity. Based on the condition diagnosed, the treatment may vary. While most conditions are treatable through the appropriate prescription of medications, surgery and radioiodine therapy may also be required. The thyroid gland may also be partly or completely removed to treat the condition. This book contains some path –breaking studies related to the functioning of the thyroid gland. It unravels the recent studies in the diagnosis, prevention and management of thyroid disease. For all readers who are interested in this domain, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.