Toxic Multinodular Goiter

Toxic multinodular goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland which contains a small rounded growth or growths called nodules. These nodules produce too much thyroid hormone. Toxic multinodular goiter arises from an existing simple goiter. It occurs most often in the elderly. Risk factors include being female and over 60 years old. It is the second most common cause of hyperthyroidism after Graves disease. Because toxic multinodular goiter is mainly a disease of the elderly, other chronic health problems may influence the outcome of this condition. The elderly person may be less able to tolerate the effect of hyperthyroidism on the heart.