Struma fibrosa is a term used in medical literature to describe a type of goiter that is composed of fibrous tissue. The correct spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "stru", is pronounced as /struː/, with a long "oo" sound. The second syllable, "ma", is pronounced as /mə/, with a schwa sound. The final two syllables, "fi-bro-sa", are pronounced as /fɪbrəʊsə/, with a stress on the second syllable and a silent "o" in "fibro". Overall, the word is spelled as "STRU-ma FIE-bro-sa".
Struma fibrosa is a medical term used to describe a rare and benign thyroid condition characterized by the development of fibrous tissue within the thyroid gland. The term "struma" refers to the enlargement or swelling of the thyroid gland, while "fibrosa" indicates the presence of fibrous tissue.
The condition typically affects individuals who have chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland, a condition known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or Hashimoto's thyroiditis. As the inflammation persists, the thyroid may undergo certain changes, including the deposition of excess collagen and fibrous tissue. Struma fibrosa may also occur in individuals with a history of goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland unrelated to inflammation.
Clinically, struma fibrosa may present as a firm, rubbery, or nodular mass in the neck region. The enlargement of the thyroid gland can result in compressive symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, breathing difficulties, or a visible mass in the neck. However, many patients with struma fibrosa may remain asymptomatic and only discover the condition incidentally during routine medical examinations.
Diagnosis of struma fibrosa involves physical examination, blood tests to assess thyroid function, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans. In some cases, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be performed to rule out any suspicious or cancerous findings.
Treatment for struma fibrosa depends on the severity of symptoms and the size of the thyroid gland. In asymptomatic cases, regular monitoring and observation may be sufficient. However, if symptoms are severe or if there is a significant cosmetic concern, surgical removal of the affected part of the thyroid gland, or in some cases the entire gland, may be recommended.
Enlargement of the thyroid due to hyperplasia of the interstitial connective tissue.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "struma fibrosa" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The word "struma" originates from the Latin term "strūma", which means a swelling or enlargement. It was commonly used in ancient Rome to refer to a swelling or tumor in the neck, particularly associated with the thyroid gland.
The term "fibrosa" comes from the Latin word "fibrosus", which means fibrous or consisting of fibers.
Therefore, "struma fibrosa" refers to a fibrous swelling or tumor, typically involving the thyroid gland.