Thyroid & Parathyroid Disorders

Thyroid and parathyroid problems are common and often require life-long monitoring. At Columbia Otolaryngology, our physicians and surgeons have extensive experience with thyroid and parathyroid conditions, including thyroid nodules, goiter, thyroid cancer, hyperparathyroidism, and Graves’ disease. A multidisciplinary, personal approach to your care ensures that you will receive the safest, most effective treatment for your particular condition.

About the Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck below the larynx (voice box). Its primary function is to regulate metabolism, which is the body’s ability to break down food and convert it to energy. The thyroid does this by producing two hormones—triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4)—that influence nearly all metabolic processes in your body. Thyroid hormone production is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is made by another gland in the endocrine system called the pituitary, located in the brain.

The parathyroid glands are four pea-sized glands located behind the thyroid gland that produce parathyroid hormone (PTH). This hormone, along with a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, helps regulate calcium and phosphorous levels in the bloodstream.

Thyroid and Parathyroid Conditions We Treat

The most common thyroid and parathyroid problems involve abnormal production of hormones. When properly diagnosed and treated, thyroid and parathyroid problems usually can be managed well.  Our specialists are experts in the care of patients with:

• Thyroid disorders
• Goiter
• Hashimoto's disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Thyroid cancer
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Hypoparathyroidism