Guide To The Symptoms Of Cowden Syndrome

Thyroid Issues

Thyroid issues may present in an individual affected by Cowden syndrome. Approximately two-thirds of all Cowden syndrome patients experience problems with their thyroid gland. Around thirty-five percent of all individuals who have Cowden syndrome will develop malignancy in the tissues of their thyroid gland. Out of this thirty-five percent, most will develop the follicular form of thyroid cancer rather than the less common papillary form of thyroid cancer. Benign adenomas or tumors of epithelial tissue are common symptoms in Cowden syndrome. Another finding in Cowden syndrome patients is thyroglossal duct cysts or pockets in the front of the neck filled with fluid. These mostly occur in individuals of childhood age. Any benign growths that occur in an individual's thyroid gland need to be closely monitored to ensure early detection if they were to become malignant. In addition, hormones should be monitored, as any growths in or nearby the thyroid gland that precipitate from Cowden syndrome can cause decreased thyroid function.