A goiter is the irregular growth of the thyroid gland that may be associated with changes in thyroid function or hormone levels. Learn about the common causes, risk factors, complications and treatments of goiters from Mayo Clinic experts. Toxic goiter : It occurs when the thyroid gland enlarges and also produces abnormally high levels of hormones Nontoxic goiter : it is a condition when the enlarged thyroid gland produces normal levels of hormones. Therefore, it is a nontoxic goiter . Learn What Causes Goiter , Its Symptoms, How It's Diagnosed, and Effective Treatment Options to Manage Thyroid Gland Enlargement and Maintain Health. Goiter means enlargement of the thyroid gland and is a general term that conveys the information that the volume of the thyroid gland is larger than normal. The presence of goiter can be determined by inspection, palpation, or by an imaging study.
