The term "nodule" refers to an anatomical physiological or pathological formation generally round, circumscribed and palpable. The lump usually is larger than the papule, it affects deeper tissue and hard-elastic. From the histological point of view it is formed by elements with cellular structure and texture different from the surrounding tissue.
The pathological formations may have an inflammatory origin (acne, chilblains, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis), infectious (as in folliculitis, for example) or neoplastic. Solid and palpable nodules may also form on tendons and muscles following trauma.
The neoplastic nodules may occur in almost any organ in the human body, but most commonly develop in the womb, in the lung and thyroid. They are usually removed surgically and subjected to histological examination to clarify whether the formation of malignancy.
The thyroid nodules are swellings that form within demarcated thyroid, altering the normal uniform appearance of the gland. They may be formed by material liquid, solid or mixed. Most nodules are benign and do not cause functional alterations of the thyroid, only a small percentage is malignant neoplastic formations. Although often asymptomatic, some thyroid nodules can cause compression in the structures surrounding the gland, causing a tightness, difficulty in breathing and / or swallowing, lowering his voice.
The presence of a breast lump may be indicative of a malignant disease (benign or malignant) that affects the breast. Very often breast lumps are palpable and in some cases are visible to the naked eye, its presence may be accompanied by other signs (changes in the nipple, losses by a nipple, breast skin that looks orange peel localized, changes in breast shape, sense of tension to the breast) and may cause pain.
The nodule to the lung is a small lesion, surrounded by normal lung tissue, which manifests itself in one of the two bodies. The size usually does not exceed 3 cm in diameter and can be due to a tumor formation (benign or malignant), but also to infections, bruising or vascular disease. In most cases the nodule to the lung does not present symptoms.
Other examples of neoplastic nodules in the field are the lipomas (benign tumors that consist of the proliferation of adipose tissue) and the fibroids (benign tumors that consist of connective tissue cells).
What kind of diseases can be associated with nodules?
The following diseases may be associated with nodules:
- Acne
- Arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Arthrosis
- Chalazion
- Breast cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Cyst
- Fibroma
- Folliculitis
- Chilblains
- Goiter
- Hyperthyroidism
- Lipoma
- Snows
- Thyroid nodules
- Stye
- Tendinitis
- Tenosynovitis
- Trauma
- African trypanosomiasis
- Testicular cancer
- Lung cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Cancer of the salivary glands
- Warts
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it would always be better to consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
What is the therapy for nodules?
Since the medical conditions that are associated with the presence of a nodule are many and different from each other, to identify a targeted treatment it is crucial to flush out the disease that underlies it.
The nodules of neoplastic origin are usually surgically removed and subjected to histological examination to clarify whether for benign or malignant.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of nodules?
In case you are already diagnosed (or is at risk) one of the pathologies associated (see list of associated diseases).
