Non-toxic multinodular goitre treatment options

Dear Ask The Doctor: I hav ebeen diagnoised with non toxic multipal goita. I am told surgery at this stage is not required I am further told that treatment via medication to controll the future growth is not available. I am seeking a second opinion

Dear Mike:A non-toxic multinodular goitre is a widespread or nodular enlargement of the thyroid gland that is benign. It is not associated with inflammation of the thyroid gland or malignant disease of the thyroid gland. In addition it is not associated with abnormal thyroid function. Nontoxic goiters usually grow very slowly over decades without causing symptoms. No treatment is necessary if there is no evidence of rapid growth, no symptoms of obstruction of the trachea or oesophagus, or no evidence of overactive thyroid gland function by thyroid function testing. Treatment is indicated if growth of the goiter extends into the thoracic cavity, if there are symptoms of compression due to increasing size, or symptoms of overactive thyroid function. Treatment options are surgery, radioactive iodine therapy or levothyroxine therapy. I would discuss in detail with your endocrinologist the reasons why treatment is not indicated at present .