What is abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland?

The abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland is called goiter. Goiter is a swelling in the front of the neck that occurs when the thyroid gland becomes enlarged. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located just below the Adam's apple. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Goiter can occur for a variety of reasons, including iodine deficiency, autoimmune disorders, and thyroid tumors. In most cases, goiter is not harmful and does not require treatment. However, if the goiter is large, it can cause difficulty swallowing or breathing, and may require surgery to remove it.