The thyroid gland regulates metabolic activity through fine-tuned secretion of thyroid hormones.

Thyroid diseases relate to its function, inflammatory alterations and nodules.

Hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis) often manifests with weight loss, nervousness, palpitations, hair loss and menstrual disturbances. Hyperthyroidism may be caused by antibodies directed against the thyroid activating the TSH-receptor as in Graves’ disease. Otherwise, autonomous adenomas, i.e. thyroid hormone-secreting nodules, and other causes may underlie thyrotoxicosis.

Hypothyroidism is often associated with weight gain, tiredness (fatigue), sensitivity to cold, reduced performance, depression, constipation. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is the autoimmune disease “Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis”. Thyroid function is of primary impact for fertility and during pregnancy.

Thyroid nodules may be benign or malign (i.e. cancer). To identify or rule out malignancy thyroid ultrasound (sonography) and fine needle cytology are of primary importance. Both investigations are carried out in my private practice. A special type of thyroid cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma) is screened for by serum calcitonin determination and calcium stimulation testing, if required.

Pain at the neck may be due to thyroid disorders as well. Inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis) may occur with or without local symptoms.

Patients who visit us especially for examination of the thyroid receive a full one-stop package including detailed history, clinical examination, blood draw and ultrasound.

Services

• Ultrasound investigation of thyroid and parathyroid glands
• Blood draw
• Fine needle capillary cytology, fine needle aspiration cytology
• Calcium stimulation (in case of elevated serum calcitonin levels)
• Traditional thyroid scintigraphy is nowadays needed in special instances only. If required it will be performed in an institute nearby.