What does it mean when your thyroid is heterogeneous?

Heterogeneous echogenicity of the thyroid gland has been associated with diffuse thyroid disease and benign and malignant nodules can coexist with diffuse thyroid disease. Underlying heterogeneous echogenicity might make it difficult to differentiate between benign and malignant nodules on US.

Does thyroid affect T cells?

Recent findings of restricted T-cell receptor V gene use amongst intrathyroidal T cells confirm the primary role of T cells in human thyroid autoimmune processes leading to AITD. However, the mechanisms whereby such autoreactive T cells escape deletion and anergy, and how they become activated, remain uncertain.

Are heterogeneous thyroid nodules cancerous?

The vast majority — more than 95% — of thyroid nodules are benign (noncancerous). If concern arises about the possibility of cancer, the doctor may simply recommend monitoring the nodule over time to see if it grows. Ultrasound can help evaluate a thyroid nodule and determine the need for biopsy.

How are T cells activated in Graves disease?

T cells in TAO When autoimmune tolerance in TAO is disrupted, antigen-presenting cells that recognize the autoantigen thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) expressed on orbital fibroblasts (OFs) activate T cells.

What does heterogeneous mean on ultrasound?

Heterogeneous refers to a structure with dissimilar components or elements, appearing irregular or variegated. For example, a dermoid cyst has heterogeneous attenuation on CT. It is the antonym for homogeneous, meaning a structure with similar components.

What exactly is the role of T cells?

T cells are a part of the immune system that focuses on specific foreign particles. Rather than generically attack any antigens, T cells circulate until they encounter their specific antigen. As such, T cells play a critical part in immunity to foreign substances.

What does heterogeneous thyroid mean on CT scan?

Heterogeneous echogenicity of the thyroid gland is a non-specific finding and is associated with conditions diffusely affecting the thyroid gland. These include: Hashimoto thyroiditis. Graves disease.

Is Graves disease Th1 or th2?

Graves’ Hyperthyroidism Is Antibody-Mediated But Is Predominantly a Th1-Type Cytokine Disease.

What kind of autoimmune disease is Graves disease?

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. Thyroid hormones control the way your body uses energy, so they affect nearly every organ in your body, even the way your heart beats.

Does heterogeneous mean abnormal?

Heterogeneous refers to a structure with dissimilar components or elements, appearing irregular or variegated.