Thyroid Gland and Associated Disorders

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, terms, and conditions related to the thyroid gland and its functions.

Thyroid Gland

An endocrine gland located in the neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism.

Thyroxine (T4)

A hormone produced by the thyroid gland essential for metabolism and growth.

Triiodothyronine (T3)

A more active thyroid hormone than T4, involved in regulating various bodily functions.

Calcitonin

A hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood.

Iodide

An essential mineral needed for the production of thyroid hormones.

Amino acid tyrosine

A building block needed for the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Negative feedback

A control mechanism whereby a process is inhibited by its end product.

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland.

TRH (Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus that promotes the release of TSH.

Anterior pituitary

The front part of the pituitary gland that secretes several important hormones, including TSH.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones.

Hypothyroidism

A condition marked by insufficient production of thyroid hormones.

Euthyroid

A state in which thyroid function is normal.

Goiter

An abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Primary hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism due to a problem in the thyroid gland itself.

Secondary hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism due to insufficient TSH secretion from the pituitary gland.

Tertiary hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism due to insufficient TRH secretion from the hypothalamus.

Cretinism

A severe form of hypothyroidism present at birth leading to stunted growth and cognitive impairment.

Thyroid hormone replacement (T4)

A treatment for hypothyroidism where synthetic T4 is provided to normalize hormone levels.

Myxedema

A severe form of hypothyroidism characterized by swelling of the skin and underlying tissues.

Hashimoto thyroiditis

An autoimmune disorder leading to chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland, often resulting in hypothyroidism.

Muscle fatigue

A condition commonly associated with hypothyroidism causing weakness and tiredness.

Thyroid storm

A severe and life-threatening form of hyperthyroidism.

Radiation therapy

A treatment option for hyperthyroidism that uses radiation to reduce hormone production.

Multinodular goiter

An enlarged thyroid gland with multiple nodules, which can lead to hyperthyroidism.

Graves Disease

An autoimmune condition that causes hyperthyroidism due to overstimulation of the thyroid gland.

Tachycardia

An abnormally rapid heart rate, commonly associated with hyperthyroidism.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

A severe complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar and acidic body conditions.

Lid lag

A delayed movement of the eyelids during upward gaze, often seen in hyperthyroidism.

Severe tachycardia

An abnormally fast heart rate, which can be dangerous and is often seen in thyroid storm.

High fever

An elevated body temperature that is a symptom of thyroid storm.

Electrolyte imbalance

A condition in which the levels of electrolytes in the body are out of balance, often treated in thyroid storm.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Increased metabolism, weight loss, and excessive sweating.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance.

Fluid replacement therapy

A treatment to restore fluids and electrolytes in patients with thyroid storm.

Cold intolerance

An inability to tolerate cold temperatures, often seen in hypothyroidism.

Restless

A symptom of thyroid storm characterized by extreme agitation and discomfort.