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Thyroid Anatomy Illustration

Illustration of thyroid

Picture of the Thyroid

Image Source: MedicineNet, Inc.

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck just below the Adams apple. The gland wraps around the windpipe (trachea) and has a shape that is similar to a butterfly formed by two wings (lobes) and attached by a middle part (isthmus).

The thyroid gland works like a tiny factory that uses iodine (mostly from the diet in foods such as seafood and salt) to produce thyroid hormones. These hormones help to regulate the body's metabolism and effects processes, such as growth and other important functions of the body.

The two most important thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), representing 99.9% and 0.1% of thyroid hormones respectively. The hormone with the most biological power is actually T3. Once released from the thyroid gland into the blood, a large amount of T4 is converted to T3 - the active hormone that affects the metabolism of cells throughout our body.

Thyroid Conditions

  • Thyroid Nodule : The term "thyroid nodule" refers to any abnormal growth that forms a lump in the thyroid gland. A thyroid nodule can occur in any part of the gland. Some nodules can be felt quite easily, while others can be hidden deep in the thyroid tissue or located very low in the gland where they are difficult to feel.
  • Hyperthyroidism Slideshow View Hyperthyroidism Slideshow: Watch this slideshow on hyperthyroidism - a condition in which an overactive thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. Learn causes, symptoms and treatment for hyperthyroidism.
  • Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which an overactive thyroid gland is producing an excessive amount of thyroid hormones that circulate in the blood.
  • Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by abnormally low thyroid hormone production.
  • Thyroid Cancer: There are 4 major types of thyroid cancer -- papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The most common symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump, or nodule, that can be felt in the neck.

Image Source: MedicineNet, Inc.

Text: MedicineNet, Inc.


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