Thyroid diseases
Definition
The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, just below the voice box (larynx). It produces chemicals (hormones) that help the body control metabolism. Thyroid hormone is also produced in response to another hormone released by the pituitary gland.
There are four main types of thyroid disease:
- Hyperthyroidism -- too much thyroid hormone
- Hypothyroidism -- too little thyroid hormone
- Benign (non-cancerous) thyroid disease
- Thyroid cancer
For information about a specific type of thyroid disease, see one of the following:
Review Date:
6/24/2009
Reviewed By:
Reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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