1

Table of Contents
Head and Neck ................................................................................................................................................... 3
Bronchial anomalies .............................................................................................................................. 9
Neck masses ........................................................................................................................................12

Written by Ola Al-Juneidi, Corrected by Abdullah Nimer.

Thyroid .............................................................................................................................................................19
Thyroid nodule ......................................................................................................................................21
Goiter ....................................................................................................................................................24
Thyroid cancer……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…27

Hyperthyroidism………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………….……30

Hypothyroidism………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………………….32

Parathyroid…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……………….34

Hyperparathyroidism……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..35

Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia………………………………………………………..……………………………………39

Pancreas……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….40

Pancreas Endocrine Tumors…………………………………………………………………………………………..………………41

Written by Nesrin Sultan, Corrected by Abdullah Nimer.

Diabetic Foot…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………..47

Written by Sura Al-Khalili, Corrected by Manar Al-Afeshat

Adrenal Gland………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………….52

Cushing’s Syndrome…………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………..55

Pheochromocytoma……………………………………………………………………………………………….……………………..59

Adrenal incidentaloma………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………62

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome……………………………………………………………………………………………….63

Written by Abdullah Nimer, Corrected by Ola Juneidi

*Note: Information from the old dossier were used, thanks Dr. Fared Halteh.

2
 Head and Neck
Anatomy:
❖ Layers of the neck (superficial to deep):
o Skin
o Subcutaneous tissue
o Superficial fascia which encloses the platysma muscle. It also contains superficial lymph
nodes.
o Deep cervical fascia and muscles

❖ The neck is divided into:

o Anterior compartment (organic compartment): made of two triangles; anterior and
posterior, separated by the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
o Posterior compartment (muscular compartment): important in neurosurgery (will not be
discussed here)

❖ Subdivisions of the organic (anterior) compartment:

1) Anterior triangle:
Borders:
o Superior: inferior border of the mandible
o Medial: midline of the neck
o Lateral: anterior border of sternocleidomastoid

Important structures:
o Hyoid bone:
• forms the attachment of many important muscles which lie on the floor of the
mouth.
• Divides the muscle into
suprahyoid and infrahyoid (strap)
muscles.

o Thyroid gland
o Parathyroid glands
o Larynx
o Trachea
o Common carotid artery and its
branches
o Internal jugular vein
o Vagus nerve and recurrent laryngeal
nerves

Subdivisions:

3
 Subdivision Boundaries Important structures

Submental triangle • Mandibular symphysis ▪ Submental lymph nodes

(unpaired) • Anterior belly of digastric muscle
• Body of hyoid bone

Submandibular • Lower border of mandible ▪ Submandibular gland and duct

triangle • Anterior belly of digastric muscle ▪ Submandibular lymph nodes
(paired) • Posterior belly of digastric muscle ▪ Facial artery and vein

Carotid triangle • Posterior belly of digastric muscle ▪ Common carotid artery

(paired) • Superior belly of omohyoid muscle ▪ External and internal carotid
• anterior border of arteries
sternocleidomastoid ▪ Internal jugular vein
▪ Vagus (X), accessory (XI) and
hypoglossal (XII) nerves

Muscular triangle • Midline of neck ▪ Strap muscles: Omohyoid,

(paired) • Superior belly of omohyoid muscle sternohyoid, sternothyroid and
• anterior border of thyrohyoid muscles
sternocleidomastoid Note: Sternohyoid lies superficial
to sternothyroid
▪ Thyroid and parathyroid glands

2) Posterior triangle:
Borders:
o Anterior: posterior border of sternocleidomastoid
o Posterior: anterior border of trapezius
o Inferior: middle portion of the clavicle
o Apex: occipital bone

Contents:
o Levator scapula: a muscle that elevates the scapula
o Scalene muscles: attach to the ribs and originate from the lateral process of the cervical
vertebra
o Subclavian vein and artery
o External jugular veins
o Branches of the cervical plexus
o Accessory nerve (innervates the trapezius)

Subdivisions:
o Occipital triangle
o Supraclavicular triangle

4
❖ Platysma muscle:
o One of the muscles of facial expression
o Attached to the clavicle and ribs inferiorly and to the mandible and mastoid process superiorly
o It disappears in the midline
o It is innervated by the cervical branch of the facial nerve
o Upon reaching the parotid gland, it will slip to engulf the parotid forming the parotid fascia.
This fascia is strong and cannot be stretched; thus, any swelling in the parotid gland will cause
severe pain.
o It continues downward to engulf the sternocleidomastoid muscle
o It is not well developed in females; however, in males it is well Landmarks in the midline:
developed due to the process of shaving.
• Hyoid bone
❖ Deep fascia of the neck (deep cervical fascia):
• Thyroid cartilage
A. Pretracheal fascia; holds the following structures together:
• Cricoid cartilage (the only
▪ Thyroid gland complete ring of cartilage
▪ Larynx around the trachea)
▪ Trachea
▪ Esophagus
▪ Infrahyoid muscles

B. Prevertebral fascia:
▪ It surrounds the vertebral column and the muscles associated with it.
▪ Branches of the cervical plexus run deep to this layer of fascia

C. Carotid sheath; contents (on each side):

▪ Common carotid and internal carotid arteries
▪ Internal jugular vein
▪ Vagus nerve (lies posterior to the artery and the vein)

❖ Sensory innervation of the neck:

o Mediated by the cutaneous branches of the cervical plexus.
o These branches emerge behind the sternocleidomastoid
muscle forming a cross
▪ Greater auricular nerve: upwards
• Innervates the skin of parotid area and ear pinna
• Runs along with external jugular vein

▪ Anterior cervical nerve:

• Also known as the transverse cervical nerve
• Runs anteriorly

▪ Lesser occipital nerve:

• Runs posteriorly
• Innervates the posterior aspect of the neck

5
 ▪ Supraclavicular nerve: The neck is rich in blood
• Downwards vessels, so wounds in this
• Divides into medial, intermediate and lateral branches. area heal quickly.
• Innervates the shoulder area
• Shares exit with the phrenic nerve (C5 root). That is why patients with
gallbladder problems have pain referred to the shoulder area.

❖ Lymphatic drainage of the neck

o It is important to know the primary lymphatic drainage of each area of the neck because most
cancers in this area are first transmitted via lymphatics.
o 1/3 of the body’s lymph nodes are found in the head and neck.
o If lymph nodes are red and tender think of inflammation; however, if they are painless, think
of malignancy.
o Lymph nodes are found in the fatty tissue or plates around the jugular vein.
o Lymphatics of the neck are divided into:

A. Superficial group: they are felt under the skin.

- Buccal (facial) nodes
- Preauricular (parotid) nodes: embedded inside the parotid gland
- Mastoid (retroauricular) nodes
- Occipital nodes
- Superficial cervical nodes: These lie along the course of the external jugular vein
on the superficial surface of the sternocleidomastoid muscle

B. Deep cervical group: run along the course of the internal jugular vein within the carotid
sheath. They are divided into 6 levels; I, II, III, IV, V & VI.
o Group I:
▪ Ia: submental nodes; drain midline structures:
- Tip of the nose / Middle portion of upper and lower lips
▪ Ib: submandibular nodes
- Nose / Sides of the tongue

o Group II: upper jugular (Jugulo-digastric)

▪ Lie behind the posterior belly of digastric muscle

o Group III: middle jugular (jugular omohyoid)

▪ Lie behind the omohyoid

o Group IV: lower jugular (epithelio-cervical)

▪ Lie below the omohyoid

o Group V: accessory
▪ Found in the posterior triangle of the neck, related to the accessory nerve.
▪ Accessory lymph nodes drain the post-nasal space.

6
 o Group VI: tracheo-esophageal (paratracheal)
▪ Lie between the trachea and cervical esophagus
▪ Drain thyroid and subglottic larynx
▪ Subglottic laryngeal carcinoma will metastasize to this group

Notes:
o Drainage of the tongue:
- Posterior 1/3: occipital lymph nodes
- Sides of the tongue: submandibular lymph nodes (Ib)
- Bulk of the tongue: jugulo-digastric (II)
o Drainage usually starts from the most superficial lymph nodes and moves to the deeper ones in a
consequential fashion. Because of this pattern of drainage, it is possible to stop a malignancy from
spreading by interrupting this route. This can be done through surgery, radiotherapy, or lymphatic
compression.
❖ Neck dissection:
1. Radical dissection:
o Removal of:
- Lymph nodes levels I-V
- Fat plates
- Sternocleidomastoid, digastric, stylohyoid & omohyoid muscles.
- Submandibular gland and tail of parotid
- Internal jugular vein
- Accessory nerve & cervical plexus sensory nerves
o Indications:
- Extensive cervical involvement or matted lymph nodes with extracapsular spread
- Invasion into sternocleidomastoid, internal jugular vein, or accessory nerve

2. Modified radical dissection:

o Excision of lymph nodes in levels I-V with sparing all or some of the non-lymphatic
structures (spinal accessory nerve, internal jugular vein and/or sternocleidomastoid
muscle), Contraindicated in presence distant metastases or fixation of vital structures
(e.g. carotid artery).

3. Selective dissection:
o here one or more of the LNs I-V are preserved based on the location of the tumor.
a. Supraomohyoid:
▪ Removal of groups I-III
▪ In cases of squamous cell carcinoma (effective in 30-80% of cases)

b. Anterior dissection (extended supraomohyoid):

▪ Removal of groups I-IV

c. Lateral dissection:
▪ Removal of groups II-IV

7
 d. Posterolateral dissection:
▪ Removal of groups II-V

e. Posterior dissection:
▪ Removal of group V only, Done in cases of pharyngeal carcinoma

f. Central (median) dissection:

▪ Removal of group VI

❖ Complications of neck dissection:

• Removal of both jugulars → edema
• Removal of accessory nerve → shoulder drop due to a loose trapezius
• Removal of sternocleidomastoid → disfigurement: treated by physiotherapy to activate
surrounding muscles
**Removal of sternocleidomastoid will not affect movement of the head.

❖ Sentinel lymph nodes:

o The first lymph node to drain the tumor.
o To detect it, the tumor is injected with methylene blue. The dye is then followed until it
reaches the first lymph node.
o The lymph node is excised and tested via a probe that detects nuclear activity. A positive blue
node confirms that the excised node is the sentinel node.
o If positive, neck dissection is performed

❖ Notes:
o Supraclavicular lymph nodes are found in the supraclavicular fossa. They are involved in
malignancies of lung and breast; not those of head and neck.
o Virchow’s lymph nodes (left supraclavicular lymph nodes) drain stomach and abdominal
carcinomas (can indicate pancreatic or gastric CA).
o Papillary thyroid carcinoma will drain to groups III and IV
o Tonsils drain to group II

❖ Staging LN masses:
o T1: <3 cm o T3: >6 cm
o T2: 3-6 cm o T4: bilateral

❖ Diagnosis:
o CT: 90% accuracy
o Examination under anesthesia
o MRI: not routine, but better than CT
o Biopsy
o FNA: usually performed on any enlarged lymph node

8
 Branchial anomalies

❖ Branchial anomalies are anomalies that represent, in the majority of cases, remnants of the
second branchial cleft. They are usually present at birth, although they may not become
apparent for several years.
❖ During embryogenesis, the branchial arches are found in the area of the neck in the pharynx.
❖ Normally, these arches disappear before birth except for:
o 1st branchial cleft: external auditory meatus
o 1st pouch: Eustachian tube and tympanic cavity
o The area in between the 1st branchial cleft and 1st pouch: tympanic membrane
o 1st arch: bones of the middle ear (amongst others)
❖ Branchial apparatus develops from ectoderm and endoderm. The branchial clefts arise
from ectoderm, while branchial pouches arise from endoderm.
❖ Remnants of the branchial apparatus present after birth are called vestigial parts

Down’s syndrome is a
hereditary disorder, but
❖ They are divided into: it is accompanied with
o Hereditary/familial: occur due to genetic abnormalities some congenital
anomalies in the GIT
o Congenital:
and CVS
▪ Occur due to failure of organogenesis
▪ Usually occur during the 1st trimester
▪ Influenced by drugs, radiation, infections, and genetic abnormalities

❖ Types:
1. Branchial cyst:
o Branchial cysts are painless, firm, mobile swellings that occur on the lateral aspect of the
upper neck along the sternocleidomastoid muscle, has a smooth and globular surface (can be
aspirated). It has a deep tract that travels between the internal and external carotid artery to
the tonsillar fossa.
o They account for almost 20% of pediatric neck masses and 1/3 of congenital masses.

o Branchial cleft cysts are subdivided based on the developmental origin into:
▪ Dermoid (ectoderm):
- More common
- Lined by skin
- Contains cholesterol (yellow pus-like fluid)
▪ Mucous (endoderm):
- Lined by a mucous membrane
- Contains mucous secretions

9
 o Differential diagnosis:
▪ Parotid swelling (superficial to sternocleidomastoid)
▪ Enlarged lymph nodes (deep to sternocleidomastoid)
▪ Cold tuberculous abscess (rare)

o Site of presentation:
▪ Most commonly arises from the 2nd branchial cleft:
• The cysts are relatively consistent in their location in the neck.
• In the anterior triangle deep to sternocleidomastoid, so it disappears on muscle
contraction.
• At the level of the junction between the upper and middle third of the
sternocleidomastoid muscle
▪ If it arises from the 1st branchial cleft, it presents near the angle on mandible or around
the ear. It might be associated with facial nerve or ear canal involvement
▪ If it arises from the 3rd branchial cleft it presents on the lower aspect of the neck with
tracts that end on the thyrohyoid membrane or in the pyriform sinus.

o Age of presentation:
▪ They usually present in late childhood or early adulthood when a previously
unrecognized cyst becomes infected. Only a very small percentage first present in
adulthood.

o Clinical presentation:
▪ They usually lie dormant and unnoticed until they become infected, often with a history
of preceding upper respiratory infection. This will lead to enlargement of the
lymphatics accompanied by hypersecretion which will cause the cysts to enlarge.
▪ If the inflammation was strong, suppuration and abscess form and a fistula tract to the
skin may develop.
▪ Acute severe infections of third or fourth branchial cleft cysts can cause pharyngeal
edema and airway and swallowing problems.
▪ Recurrent infections may complicate surgical removal, increasing the risk of injury to
important structures such as the facial nerve when the parotid is involved.

o Treatment:
▪ Management of branchial cleft cysts begins with controlling
All branchial lesions
infection, if present, by giving antibiotics. Once the infection has should be addressed
resolved, the mass is usually excised surgically to prevent future surgically
problems.
▪ If antibiotics are ineffective, drain the cyst and excise it surgically.

o N.B: if the cyst was treated with incision and drainage without removing the whole cyst, it
can recur as a cyst or a fistula.

10
2. Branchial fistula:
o It is a tract between two epithelial surfaces (ectoderm and endoderm). It forms due to failure
of growth of the second branchial arch caudally over the third and fourth arches.

o During development, ectoderm grows and enlarges more than endoderm, so the tract will be
oblique.

o Site:
▪ Anterior triangle of the neck
▪ It opens on the skin at the junction between the middle and lower third of the
sternocleidomastoid muscle. Then, it extends as a tract and opens posteriorly in the
mouth in the supratonsillar region.

o Age: presents directly after birth. However, sometimes, the opening is too small and cannot
be noticed.

o Differential diagnosis:
▪ Folliculitis
▪ Pilonidal sinus

o Clinical presentation:
▪ If patent: The mother brings her child complaining of leakage of milk through the
opening in the neck
▪ If the lumen of the fistula is small, it is liable for infections. Usually presents as a clear
discharge (rarely purulent).
▪ If the opening of the fistula is obstructed the discharge will not come out leading to an
infection.
▪ During physical examination, feel the tract of the fistula between your fingers. It feels
like a firm, thin rope.

o Treatment:
▪ Surgical excision. If incomplete, recurrence is likely.
▪ Caution: do not open the fistula using a probe. This might damage the vessels and
nerves in that area.

3. Branchial auricle:
o It occurs due to overproduction of mesoderm.
o Presents as an osseous or cartilaginous protrusion after birth.

11
 Neck masses

Note: Detailed history taking & physical examination is in the OSCE dossier.
❖ History:
o Age:
▪ <20: congenital > infection > malignancy
▪ 20-40: benign through swelling/infection/ inflammation
▪ >40: malignancy until proven otherwise

o Gender: males are three times more likely to have a malignancy

o Occupation:
▪ Gas station: carcinoma of the sinuses
▪ Crowded areas: tuberculosis
▪ Outdoor worker: skin carcinoma
▪ Radiation: thyroid cancer

o Mass:
▪ Size: if >2 cm, it must be investigated
▪ Duration:
- 7 days: infection
- 7 months: carcinoma
- 7 years: congenital
▪ Number: if multiple masses, think of lymphoma
▪ Progression: if rapid, think of bleeding into a cyst
▪ Location: anterior triangle masses are more benign than posterior triangle masses
▪ Associated symptoms:
- Pain
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Facial nerve invasion: manifested as bell’s palsy. An indicator of malignancy
- 7 cardinal symptoms of malignancy:
o Dysphagia
o Odynophagia
o Voice changes (hoarseness)
o Stridor (signifies upper airway obstruction)
o Speech disorder
o Globus
o Referred pain to the ear (via CNs V, IX or X)
▪ Aggravating factors:
- If the size increases with lemon or chewing think of a submandibular obstruction.

12
 ▪ Past medical history: if the patient has a history of carcinoma, it is most probably a
recurrence
▪ Social history:
- Smoking: important in head and neck CA. It increases the risk of recurrence
- Alcohol
- Travel history
- Animal exposure
- Skin contact
▪ Family history:
- Thyroid cancer
- MEN syndrome

❖ Physical examination:
o Inspect all mucosal and cutaneous sites to look for signs of inflammation
o Examination under anesthesia
o Indirect/fiberoptic laryngoscopy
o Examination of the mass:
▪ Site/ size / shape
▪ Skin overlying it: ulceration is malignancy until proven otherwise
▪ Color
▪ Edges
▪ Consistency
▪ Fluctuation
▪ Transillumination
❖ Investigations:
A. Labs:
o Complete blood count (CBC) with differential
o ESR and/or C-reactive protein (CRP) to evaluate for systemic inflammation or infection
o Blood culture (for febrile patients)
o EBV or CMV serology (when adenopathy is diffuse)
o HIV serology (in patients with increased risk)
o Specific serologic tests can be ordered when there is an increased index of suspicion for
disease based on exposure, history, and examination.
B. Imaging:
o Ultrasound
o Contrast CT/MRI CT is only indicated if there is a
o PET scan in the setting of malignancy suspected deep neck space infection
C. Diagnostic procedures:
o FNA: if negative, repeat
o Triple endoscopy with biopsy (avoid excisional biopsy, except in cases of suspected
lymphoma):
- Laryngoscopy - Bronchoscopy
- Esophagoscopy

13
 Note: In pediatric patients we use ultrasound rather than CT/MRI; Less radiation, less contrast
exposure & less sedation.

❖ Differential diagnosis for posterior triangle masses:

a. Solid: lymph nodes
b. Cystic:
i. Cystic hygroma
ii. Pharyngeal pouch
c. Pulsatile: subclavian aneurysm

Neck masses are divided according to etiology into:

1. Congenital masses: (usually cystic, swell during URTI)

❖ Midline masses:
a. Sublingual dermoid cyst:
o Dermoid cysts are due to entrapment of epithelium in deeper tissue, occurring either
developmentally or post-trauma. Congenital lesions are usually midline, nontender,
mobile, submental neck masses. In many patients, dermoid cysts occur on the floor of
the mouth or elsewhere in the mouth.
o Dermoid cysts in the skin are lined by an epidermis that possesses various epidermal
appendages (hair follicles, sweat glands and sebaceous cysts). As a rule, these
appendages are fully mature.
o They are treated by surgical excision.

b. Thyroglossal cyst:
o 1/3 of congenital masses. Second most common neck abnormality after
lymphadenopathy.
o Failure of obliteration of the thyroglossal duct after descent of thyroid from foramen
cecum to the lower anterior part of the neck. When this happens, midline neck cysts or
ectopic thyroid tissue can develop anywhere along the path of the thyroglossal duct.
o The cyst is present from birth and usually detected during early childhood. 50%
present in patients less than 20 years old.
o Painless, firm midline neck mass, usually near the hyoid bone. On physical
examination, it moves with swallowing because it is connected to the ligament. It also
moves with tongue protrusion because it is connected to the hyoid bone.
o May cause dysphagia or neck/throat pain if the cyst enlarges
o Ultrasound should be done preoperatively to make that this is not the only functioning
thyroid tissue in the body
o

14
 o Complications:
- Infection of the cyst with possible abscess formation
- Sinus tract formation extends to the skin with persistent drainage
- Possible ectopic thyroid tissue (might be the only thyroid tissue).
- Possible malignancy arising from ectopic thyroid tissue (rarely transforms into
papillary carcinoma).
o Treatment: sistrunk procedure (resection of the cyst, tract, and central part of the hyoid
bone). Treat any active infection with antibiotics before surgery.

c. Subhyoid bursa
d. Thymic cyst
e. Laryngocele
f. Thyroid nodule
g. Pretracheal lymph nodes
h. Teratoma

❖ Lateral masses:
a. Branchial cyst (discussed previously)
b. Carotid artery aneurysm

c. Carotid body tumor

o Carotid body tumors are the most common paragangliomas of the skull base and
neck region (60%). These tumors develop at the carotid bifurcation.
o Approximately one-third are inherited as part of a genetic syndrome.
o They are locally invasive, slow-growing tumors that can remain asymptomatic for
many years.
o Carotid body tumors typically present as painless, gradually enlarging masses located
in the upper part of the neck below the angle of the jaw. In later stages, pain, dysphagia,
deficits of cranial nerves VII, IX, X, XI and XII, and hoarseness or a Horner's syndrome
may result from pressure on the vagus or sympathetic nerves.
o Physical examination discloses a rubbery non-tender mass in the lateral neck that is
more freely movable in the horizontal plane than vertically, referred to as a positive
Fontaine’s sign. Carotid body tumors are often pulsatile (it can transmit the carotid
pulse, or it can have a pulse on its own), and a bruit can be heard on auscultation;
however, the absence of a bruit does not rule out a carotid body tumor.
o Diagnosis is usually made based on characteristic features demonstrated on MRI/MRA
imaging. Duplex sonography typically indicates the mass to be hypervascular, although
the absence of hypervascularity does not exclude the diagnosis
o Treated with surgical excision and preoperative embolization

d. Laryngocele
e. Thyroid masses

15
 ❖ Masses that can present as midline or lateral masses:
a. Cystic hygroma:
o Lymph-filled space that arises from the embryogenic remnant of the jugular lymph sac.
o Not a true cyst.
o Soft, fluctuant, translucent, lobular and painless. Contains clear fluid.
o Treated by excision; high recurrence rate.

b. Hemangioma:
o Reddish-bluish compressible mass
o Bruit on auscultation
o Increase in size with crying/straining
o Associated with subglottic vascular malformation
o Grows rapidly in the first year of life. Slow involution starts at 18-24 months
o 90% resolve without treatment
o Indications for treatment:
- Airway compression - Dysphagia
- Ulceration - Thrombocytopenia
- Eye problem - Cardiac failure
o Treated with steroids

c. Pharyngeal pouch:
o Diverticulum in the pharyngeal mucosa that bulge through a weakness in the pharyngeal
constrictor muscle on the left side.
o Common in elderly males.
o Presents with dysphagia, halitosis, and a swelling in the neck.
o Diagnosed by barium swallow.

d. Lymphatic malformation:
o Presents as a soft, compressible, doughy mass that swells with upper respiratory tract
infections.
o Diagnosed using CT/MRI.
o Treatment:
▪ For cosmetic or symptomatic relief.
▪ Complete excision is difficult due to its infiltrative nature.
▪ Treated by debulking or sclerotherapy.

e. Pharyngeal ranula:
o A ranula is a cystic mucosal extravasation from the sublingual salivary gland.
o Plunging ranula: a ranula that extends through the mylohyoid muscle.
o Treatment: excision.

16
2. Infective/inflammatory masses:

a. Cervical adenitis:
o Inflammation of one or more lymph nodes of the neck due to viral upper respiratory tract
infection.
o Self-limited
o Generalized lymphadenopathy

b. Suppurative bacterial lymphadenitis:

o Due to bacterial infection with Staph aureus or group A streptococcus
o Common in children
o Treatment:
• IV antibiotics
• Incision and drainage if refractory to antibiotics

c. Deep neck space infection:

o Caused by a dental infection, tonsillitis, trauma, or suppurative lymph nodes
o Most common organisms are streptococcus, staphylococcus aureus, and oral anaerobic
bacteria
o If it was a neck abscess it presents with:
• Fever • Odynophagia
• Acute neck swelling • Stridor
• Induration • Redness and tenderness
• Dysphagia
o Treatment:
• IV antibiotics
• Incision and drainage

d. Ludwig’s angina:
o Cellulitis of the sublingual and submandibular spaces
o It causes compression of the lymphatics, which leads to edema and airway obstruction
o Treatment:
• Airway control
• IV antibiotics

e. Sialadenitis/sialolithiasis

f. Other inflammations:
o Sarcoidosis
o Kawasaki’s disease
o Lower anterior midline mass (thyroiditis)

g. Other infections:
o Cat scratch disease
o Atypical mycobacteria
o HIV (diffuse hyperplastic actinopathy)

17
3. Neoplastic masses:

❖ Benign:
a. Paraganglioma:
o Vascular tumor that arises from parapharyngeal cells of the autonomic nervous system
o Treated with surgical excision and preoperative embolization

b. Lipoma
c. Schwannoma
d. Infiltrative fibromatosis
e. Neurofibroma
f. Salivary gland neoplasm

❖ Malignant:
a. Metaplastic squamous cell carcinoma (most common)

b. Lymphoma:
o Hodgkin’s:
• 85% of the cases
• Painless cervical lymph nodes
• Bulky matted

o Non-Hodgkin’s:
• Diagnosed by surgical biopsy
• Treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy

c. Thyroid CA
d. Adenocarcinoma
e. Tonsillar SCC

o Location of the mass is suggestive of the primary site of malignancy

▪ Oral cavity CA metastasizes to submandibular triangle
▪ Lateral metastatic SCC metastasizes to level II and III
▪ Nasopharyngeal or scalp masses metastasize to posterior triangle
▪ Papillary CA metastasizes to any level of the neck

o Note supraclavicular lymph node enlargement is usually due to an infraclavicular mass. Usually
from the GIT (Virchow’s and scalene lymph nodes)

18
 Thyroid
❖ Embryology:

The thyroid gland is the first of the body's endocrine glands to develop, on approximately
the third week (24th day) of gestation. It is primarily derived from endoderm. The ventral
portion of the fourth pharyngeal pouch will develop into the lateral thyroid lobes. The thyroglossal
duct develops from the median bud of the pharynx. This hollow structure migrates caudally in close
proximity with the developing hyoid cartilage. It reaches a position anterior to the laryngeal
cartilages and attaches to the thyroid isthmus. The pyramidal lobe originates from this
migration. The thyroglossal duct atrophies and closes as the foramen cecum (at the junction of the
anterior two thirds and posterior third of the tongue) before birth but can remain open in some
people (thyroglossal cyst). Parafollicular cells (C cells) are derived from the neural crest and
make up approx. 0.1% of thyroid mass, (some studies suggest that they may be in fact derived from
the endoderm, but the clinical implications of this is yet unknown). The production of Thyroxin
starts at the 20th week of gestation.

❖ Anatomy:
The thyroid gland normally weighs 10-20g in normal adults. The normal thyroid gland is
immediately caudal to the larynx and encircles the anterolateral portion of the trachea. The thyroid
is bordered by the trachea and esophagus medially and the carotid sheath laterally. The
sternocleidomastoid muscle and the three strap muscles (sternohyoid, sternothyroid, and the
superior belly of the omohyoid) border the thyroid gland anteriorly and laterally. It is one of the
most vascular organs of the body.

*Structures:
The thyroid has two lobes that are connected by the isthmus. In 55% of the population we find a
pyramidal lobe. The lobes have superior and inferior lobes. The tubercle of Zuckerkandl, a
pyramidal extension of the thyroid gland, is located on the posterior aspect of each thyroid lobe and
helps in identifying the recurrent laryngeal nerve that usually transverses its posterior
aspect. The functioning unit is the lobule, which consists of 24-40 follicles that are lined with
cuboidal epithelium. Follicles are the sites where key thyroid elements function: Thyroglobulin
(TG), Tyrosine, Iodine, Thyroxine (T4),Triiodotyrosine (T3).

*Blood supply:
The thyroid is mainly supplied by the right and left superior and inferior thyroid arteries, which
are branches of the external carotid arteries and the thyrocervical trunk, respectively. In about
3% of the population a thyroidea ima artery is found. It arises from the aortic arch
or brachiocephalic artery and courses to the inferior portion of the isthmus or inferior thyroid lobes.

*Venous drainage:
The superior thyroid vein travels along the superior thyroid artery and later drains into the internal
jugular vein. The middle thyroid vein follows a direct course laterally to the internal jugular vein.
The right inferior thyroid vein passes to the right (or the left) brachiocephalic vein, while the left
inferior thyroid vein drains into the left brachiocephalic vein.

19
*Nerve Supply:
The right and left superior laryngeal nerves originate from the right and left vagus nerves as they
exit the base of the skull. The superior laryngeal nerves have two branches each; the external and
internal
The external superior laryngeal nerve is predominantly motor. It innervates the inferior constrictor
and cricothyroid muscles. Rates of injury reach up to 30% due to the nerve being closely
related to the branches of the superior thyroid artery, the internal branch is sensory to the
larynx.
The right and left recurrent laryngeal nerves, which are branches of the right and left vagus nerves,
provide the larynx with sensory and motor function. They innervate all muscles to the larynx except
the cricothyroid muscle and provide motor function for vocal cord abduction and adduction.

*Important: In case of unilateral injury of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, the patient ends up
with hoarseness. Bilateral injury will result in airway obstruction. Damage of the superior
laryngeal nerve causes a deeper, quieter voice

❖ Physiology:
There are two biologically active thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine
(T3), T3 being the more active but less abundant form. The half-life of T4 is 7 days, while that of
T3 is only one day. Both have two iodine atoms on their tyrosine ring. The thyroid gland contains
large quantities of T4 and T3 incorporated in thyroglobulin, the protein within which the
hormones are both synthesized and stored. T4, which is secreted only from the thyroid, is converted
to T3 mostly in the liver and kidneys, but may be converted in most, if not all tissues.
The hypothalamus secretes TRH, which in turn stimulates the pituitary gland to release TSH. TSH
then stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4, which will produce a negative feedback action
on the hypothalamus and pituitary.
Other factors that inhibit TSH secretion include somatostatin, dopamine, and glucocorticoids,
but the overall impact is small, their sustained increase does not lead to sustained decreases in TSH
levels (only transiently); as serum levels of T4 and T3 overcome the inhibition.
Parafollicular cells (C-cells) secrete calcitonin, which regulates serum calcium and phosphate,
contrary to parathyroid hormone.

❖ Main signs and symptoms:

The main signs and symptoms of thyroid pathologies are mass effects due to goiter (dysphagia,
stridor, shortness of breath, and feeling of a lump), signs and symptoms of
hyper/hypothyroidism,

❖ Main Investigations:
Investigations used for the thyroid gland include TFT, ultrasound, thyroid uptake and scan,
FNA and biopsy. Uptake measures the function of the thyroid, while a scan assesses its anatomy.

20
 Thyroid Nodule

Definition: A thyroid nodule is a lump in the thyroid gland. They come to attention when noted
by the patient or during a routine physical exam or radiological procedure.
Epidemiology: Nodules can be found in about 5% of the general population. Thyroid cancer
accounts for 4 to 6.5% of all thyroid nodules. They are more common in women.

Most thyroid nodules represent a variety of benign diagnoses, including colloid nodules,
degenerative cysts, hyperplasia, thyroiditis, or benign neoplasms.

Signs and Symptoms:

The signs and symptoms of thyroid nodules depend on the underlying cause and whether the mass
is causing obstruction or not.

21
** refer to algorithm while reading the following
Initial evaluation in all patients with a thyroid nodule (discovered either by palpation or incidentally
noted on a radiologic procedure) includes:

●History and physical examination: low accuracy for predicting cancer, however there are
several features that can suggest an increased likelihood of malignancy, including age (<30yrs and
>60yrs more likely to be cancer that 30-60yrs), gender (cancer rate twice as high in men), a rapid
growth of a neck mass, childhood head and neck irradiation, total body irradiation for bone
marrow transplantation, family history of thyroid cancer, or thyroid cancer syndromes (such as
MEN 2). Physical findings of a fixed hard mass, obstructive symptoms, cervical
lymphadenopathy, or vocal cord paralysis all suggest the possibility of cancer.

●Measurement of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): If the serum TSH

concentration is subnormal, indicating overt or subclinical hyperthyroidism, the possibility that the
nodule is hyperfunctioning is increased and thyroid scintigraphy should be performed
next, patients with TSH below the normal range require an evaluation for hyperthyroidism. If the
serum TSH concentration is normal or elevated and the nodule meets sonographic criteria for
sampling, then fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is indicated. In addition, patients with a high
serum TSH concentration require an evaluation for hypothyroidism. Serum TSH is an
independent risk factor for predicting malignancy in a thyroid nodule.

22
●Ultrasound: to confirm the presence of nodularity, assess sonographic features, and assess for
the presence of additional nodules and lymphadenopathy. It could also provide us with information
about the structures adjacent to the gland. Ultrasound should not be relied on for the diagnosis of
thyroid cancer.

Subsequent evaluations:
• If TSH was low or within lower portion of normal: Thyroid scintigraphy to determine
functionality; a nonfunctioning nodule (uptake of radioiodine less than surrounding tissue)
will require FNA. Hyperfunctioning nodules (uptake greater than surrounding tissue) are
rarely cancerous so FNA is not required, treatment based on FT4 and T3, if high treat, if
normal then it’s subclinical hyperthyroidism and you should observe in most cases. Also
useful in case of multiple nodules to show which are the hypofunctional ones that would
need an FNA.
***Radionuclide scanning is contraindicated during pregnancy. Breastfeeding should also
be held (the amount of time depends on isotope used)
***indeterminate nodules should be evaluated by FNA as most are nonfunctioning
• If TSH was normal or high: next step should be an FNA-guided biopsy if nodule meets
sonographic criteria for sampling. (nodules that do not meet criteria should be monitored):
Regardless of size:
•Subcapsular locations adjacent to the recurrent laryngeal nerve or trachea
•Extrathyroidal extension
•Extrusion through rim calcifications
•Associated with sonographically abnormal cervical lymph nodes
FNA should be performed in nodules ≥1 cm (as determined by largest dimension) if they are
solid and hypoechoic or have one or more of these suspicious sonographic features:
•Irregular margins
•Microcalcifications
•Taller than wide shape
•Rim calcifications

23
 For the history of a thyroid nodule, we should ask about its duration, progression, symptoms of the
nodule (such as pain, dysphagia, etc.), associated symptoms (symptoms of
hypo/hyperthyroidism), risk factors for malignancy (history of radiation or previous malignancy…),
and family history.
For the physical examination, it is important to describe the nodule. We should comment on its size,
site, shape, surface, color, surrounding skin, temperature, tenderness, edges, consistency, and
whether or not they are fixed. Regional lymph nodes should be palpated as well.

Goiter

Definition:
Goiter is defined as an abnormal growth of the thyroid gland. Goiters can be diffuse or nodular,
and may be associated with normal, decreased or increased thyroid hormone production. Goiter
associated with increased production of thyroid hormone is termed toxic, while goiter that is not
associated with an increased production is termed non-toxic. Most goiters are euthyroid.

The most common cause of goiter worldwide is iodine deficiency. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis,
multinodular goiter, and Graves’ disease are common causes of goiter in adults. In older adults,
multinodular goiter is most common.
Goiter may also be caused by tumors, thyroiditis, and infiltrative diseases.
Common risk factors for goiter are female gender, old age, genetic factors and family history.

24
In patients with iodine deficiency or Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an increase in TSH secretion is the
predominant cause of goiter. In contrast, most patients with sporadic nontoxic multinodular goiters
have normal serum TSH concentrations. In these individuals, the thyroid enlargement is probably
caused by several growth factors (including TSH) that act over time on thyroid follicular cells.
Some nodules may acquire mutations within thyroid follicular cells, which result in them becoming
autonomous.

Signs and symptoms depend on the growth rate of the goiter and on the presence of thyroid
dysfunction. Signs and symptoms of hyper (multinodular goiter with autonomy or Graves’ disease)
or hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or iodine deficiency) may be present. Most goiters are
asymptomatic and may be an incidental finding. Particularly large goiters can result in obstructive
symptoms, such as exertional dyspnea, stridor, wheezing, hoarseness, and Horner’s
syndrome. Pain is not common but can be brought about by sudden rapid growth causing
hemorrhage. Goiter may contribute to OSA.

It is important to take a thorough history, focusing on family history of thyroid diseases, history of
irradiation of the head and neck, presence obstructive symptoms or those of hyper- or
hypothyroidism.

The physical exam includes assessing the size of the thyroid, presence of firm nodules and looking
for asymmetry. Cervical lymph nodes should be palpated. Tracheal deviation or dilated neck veins
may be present.
Initial testing is measurement of serum TSH. Ultrasound is usually done as well. Many experts
measure thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies to test for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

If TSH is low, FT4 and T3 are also measured, in overt of subclinical hyperthyroidism and goiter,
Multinodular goiter with autonomy and Graves’ disease are at the top of the differential diagnosis,
if TSH is high, T4 should be obtained. In overt or subclinical hypothyroidism, he most likely
diagnosis is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (or iodine deficiency in endemic areas). Normal TSH levels
can also be found in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In this case we may do further testing, such as
obtaining serum TPO antibodies

Thyroid ultrasound is done in most patients except those with low TSH and clinical features
suggesting Graves’ disease. Ultrasound is especially in patients who report rapid goiter growth and
obstructive symptoms, those features are suggestive of malignancy, and could also occur in patients
with infectious or subacute thyroiditis. When worrisome features are present on physical
examination or ultrasound, FNA biopsy is indicated.

25
 Refer to algorithm for additional tests

The treatment of goiter depends on whether it is toxic or nontoxic.

For patients diagnosed with benign nontoxic goiter (multinodular goiter, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or
iodine deficiency goiter) underlying hypothyroidism must be corrected, if present with thyroid
hormone replacement therapy. This alone, in some cases, may reduce the size of the goiter. We may
continue with observation only. In many cases, however, the goiter does not resolve completely,
and additional therapy is required.
Thyroidectomy is indicated in case of obstructive symptoms or cosmetic reasons. Surgery is also
indicated if malignancy is suspected. Total or near-total thyroidectomy is the preferred
procedure. In near-total thyroidectomy, both lobes of the thyroid are removed and only a small part
of the thyroid is left (less than 1 mL).
Patients who are not fit for surgery, or those who refuse surgery, can benefit from radioiodine
therapy.
Patients with toxic multinodular goiter (Plummer disease) or toxic adenoma, get symptomatic relief
from beta blockers. To treat the excessive thyroid hormone production, surgery or radioiodine can
be used. Surgery is preferred in patients who have large goiters, obstructive signs, or coexisting
thyroid cancer.

26
 Thyroid Cancer

The prevalence of thyroid cancer has increased in both genders and all ethnic backgrounds in recent
years. The annual incidence is about 0.6 million of the population.

Most primary thyroid malignancies are derived from follicular epithelial cells. These tumors can
be divided into differentiated (papillary, follicular) and undifferentiated
(anaplastic). Parafollicular C cells can also become malignant; examples of this include medullary
carcinoma and lymphoma. The thyroid can also be involved by metastases (most commonly from
renal cell carcinoma).

The single most important etiological factor in differentiated thyroid carcinoma, particularly
papillary, is irradiation of the thyroid under five years of age.

Malignant lymphomas sometimes develop in autoimmune thyroiditis, and the lymphatic infiltration
in the autoimmune process may be an etiological factor

Other risk factors of thyroid malignancies include female gender, family history of thyroid cancer
or a thyroid cancer syndrome like MEN 2 or Cowden syndrome in a first-degree relative.
Remember: Thyroid cancer is more common in females, but if a nodule is found in a male, there is
a higher chance that it is malignant.

[Not that important]

1. Papillary Adenocarcinoma:
Mutations in the genes encoding for the proteins in the MAPK pathway, like RET/PTC or
BRAF
2. Follicular Adenocarcinoma:
Monoclonal origin including RAS mutations, PAX-PPAR gamma 1or others, but rarely with
RET/PTC or BRAF.
Follicular thyroid cancer can be a part of familial neoplastic syndromes like Cowden (PTEN).
4. Medullary Carcinoma:
A neuroendocrine tumor of the parafollicular or C cells of the thyroid gland. Most are sporadic
but approximately 25% are familial as part of MEN2 (RET proto-oncogene)
5. Anaplastic Carcinoma:Undifferentiated tumors of the thyroid follicular epithelium. Some
studies suggest that it arises from well-differentiated thyroid cancers that have accumulated a
huge amount of mutations. These cancers arise form RAS-mutation positive differentiated
cancers.

27
The most common presenting symptom is thyroid swelling. Enlarged cervical lymph nodes can be
the presenting symptom of papillary carcinoma. Recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis is very
suggestive of locally advanced disease.
Constitutional symptoms can be seen, which include fever of unknown origin, anorexia, weight
loss and fatigue.
Anaplastic growths are usually hard, irregular and infiltrating. A differentiated carcinoma may be
suspiciously firm and irregular but is often indistinguishable from a benign swelling. Small
papillary tumours may be impalpable, even when lymphatic metastases are present. Pain, often
referred to the ear, is suggestive of nerve involvement from infiltrating tumors.
The most common type of thyroid cancer is papillary adenocarcinoma, accounting for up to 80% of
all thyroid cancers. The average age at diagnosis is rather young; 30 to 40 years.
The prognosis is excellent, with a 10-year survival rate above 95%. About 50% of papillary cancers
are found to have psammoma bodies, which are round calcifications. This type of thyroid cancer
most commonly spreads via the lymphatics, and positive cervical lymph nodes do not affect the
prognosis. The most common site for distant metastasis is the lung. Thyroglobulin is a tumor
marker for this type of cancer.

Follicular adenocarcinoma is the second most common type, comprising for about 10% of thyroid
cancers. Blood borne metastasis is more common than it is for papillary thyroid cancer. It is more
aggressive than papillary cancer and has a higher mortality rate, but overall still excellent compared
to most cancers Follicular type will most commonly spread to the bone with lytic lesions.
• Hürthle cell cancer was considered a variant of follicular thyroid cancer but recent studies
indicate that it is a distinct tumor type (some sources and doctors will still consider it
follicular cell variant), it has a similar clinical presentation as follicular, but unlike follicular
carcinoma it commonly spreads to lymph nodes, has poor radioactive iodine uptake and a
worse prognosis, it is less common than the previously mentioned types, making up only 5%
of thyroid cancers.

Medullary carcinoma is as common as Hürthle cell thyroid cancer, accounting for 5% of thyroid
cancers. The prognosis depends on whether or not lymph nodes are involved. The male to female
ratio is 1:1.5. The 10-year survival rate without lymph node involvement is about 80%, while it is
only 45% with lymph node involvement. It spreads via lymphatics and hematogenously. It
commonly spreads to liver, lung and bone. High levels of serum calcitonin and carcinoembryonic
antigen are produced by many medullary tumors. Therefore, calcitonin can be used for patient
follow up, as levels fall after resection of the tumor. On histology, medullary carcinoma shows a
characteristic amyloid stroma.
In about 10-20% of cases medullary carcinoma is familial, presenting as part of multiple endocrine
neoplasia type 2A (Medullary carcinoma, adrenal pheochromocytoma, hyperparathyroidism).

Anaplastic carcinoma is one of the most aggressive cancers in humans. It makes up 2% of thyroid
cancers. The prognosis is dismal; disease specific mortality approaches 100%. Almost all patients
die within six months. In most cases, distant spread is apparent at time of diagnosis, most
commonly found in the lungs.

28
Evaluation and work up of thyroid nodules have already been discussed.
It is essential to take a complete history and perform an adequate physical exam on the patient. As
previously mentioned, family history and radiation exposure are very important. Regional lymph
nodes should be palpated, and thyroid function should be assessed.
Ultrasound should be performed to look for suspicious features. For suspicious or indeterminate
lesions, fine needle aspiration is performed. If medullary thyroid cancer is suspected, calcitonin
levels may be obtained by doing the pentagastrin-stimulated calcitonin test.
In thyrotoxic patients, radioiodine uptake scan is done. Cold nodules require further assessment,
such as FNA.
For follicular adenocarcinoma, FNA alone is not sufficient, as it is hard to distinguish from
benign follicular adenoma just by histology. For this reason, tissue structure is needed for an
accurate diagnosis.

Papillary adenocarcinoma and follicular adenocarcinoma are both differentiated tumors, therefore
they are treated in a similar fashion. Prior to surgery, patients should be evaluated by ultrasound.
The surgery of choice depends on the extent of the disease and patient’s factors such as age and
other comorbidities.
For tumors <1 cm without extrathyroidal extension and negative lymph nodes, lobectomy is
preferred. The contralateral lobe may be removed if it is suspicious for cancer, or if the patient has
strong family history for thyroid cancer.
Tumors sized 1 to 4 cm without extrathyroidal extension and no lymph nodes, thyroidectomy or
lobectomy, depending on ultrasound findings or preference of the patient.
Tumors ≥4 cm with extrathyroidal extension or metastases should go for total thyroidectomy. Neck
dissection should be considered as well in case of nodal metastasis. Depending on site
of involvement, either central or lateral neck dissection is performed.
For patients who underwent head and neck radiation during childhood, total thyroidectomy is
recommended regardless of tumor size.
In high risk patients, radioactive iodine therapy is recommended. Multiple doses may also be given
in case of unresectable disease or distant metastasis.
Hürthle cell thyroid cancer is most commonly treated by total thyroidectomy.
For medullary carcinoma, total thyroidectomy is recommended in addition to elective central neck
dissection.
Treatment of anaplastic carcinoma is less straightforward. In case of resectable tumors, total
thyroidectomy in addition to radiotherapy and chemotherapy is suggested. If disease is advanced,
radiotherapy and chemotherapy may still be used. For metastatic disease, there is no cure. The
patient’s airway should be secured by tracheostomy. Palliative radiotherapy for metastatic disease
may be beneficial in reducing pain.

29
Complications of thyroid surgery:
• Hemorrhage: Occurs about 6 hours postoperatively. Presents as postoperative shortness of
breath. (Remember: postoperative shortness of breath can be due bilateral recurrent
laryngeal nerve injury or due to a hematoma.) Management: ABC, then hematoma evacuation
• Hypocalcemia: It is usually transient, due to parathyroid blood supply compromise. As a
prophylactic measurement, parts of the parathyroid gland are taken and autografted into the
sternocleidomastoid or in the forearm.
• Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury: 1%

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism consists of multiple disorders that present with excessive synthesis

of thyroid hormones, leading to thyrotoxicosis.

Risk factors for developing hyperthyroidism include family history, particularly of

Graves’ disease, female sex, and personal history of other autoimmune disorders such
as pernicious anemia and diabetes mellitus type 1

Clinical types of hyperthyroidism are: diffuse toxic goiter (Graves’ disease), toxic
nodular goiter, toxic nodule, other rare causes.
Graves’ disease is usually seen in young women. It is the most common cause of
hyperthyroidism. About 50% of patients have family history of endocrine
autoimmune disease. It is caused by circulating antibodies that activate TSH
receptors on follicular cells. This leads to deregulated production of
thyroid hormone.
Toxic nodular goiter is seen in middle-aged or elderly women. Many times, the
nodules are inactive, and the remaining thyroid tissue is what is causing the
hyperthyroidism.
Toxic nodule is a single overactive nodule. This nodule may be a toxic adenoma or a
part of multiple nodules whose functional capacity is independent of regulation by
TSH. The thyroid tissue surrounding this nodule is usually inactive as it is
suppressed.

30
Patients with hyperthyroidism may present with warm (rarely erythematous) skin,
increased sweating and heat intolerance, hyperpigmentation (in severe cases),
pruritus (primarily in patients with Graves), oncholysis, and thinning of the
hair. Vitiligo and alopecia areata can occur in association with autoimmune
disorders. Lid lag is seen in all patients with hyperthyroidism. The patient may
also note diplopia, corneal ulceration due to the proptosis. Cardiovascular
manifestations include increased heart rate, systolic hypertension and wide pulse
pressure, and atrial fibrillation. anxiety, emotional lability, weakness, tremor,
palpitations, Dyspnea on exertion, weight loss
with hyperphagia, hyperdefecation, and clubbing (thyroid acropachy), urinary
frequency, oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea in women, and gynecomastia and
erectile dysfunction in men are also common. Other conditions that should suggest
the possibility of hyperthyroidism include osteoporosis, hypercalcemia, heart failure,
premature atrial contractions, shortness of breath, and a deterioration in glycemic
control in patients with previously diagnosed diabetes. Clinical features that are
specific to Graves’ disease are thyroid ophthalmopathy (characterized by inflamed
extraocular muscles and orbital fat and connective tissue, impaired eye muscle
function and periorbital edema) and pretibial myxedema.

The previously stated signs and symptoms may be noted during history and physical
examination. The next step is to do a thyroid function test. Low serum TSH and high
free T4/T3 is seen in primary hyperthyroidism. After this, we must find the
underlying cause of hyperthyroidism. Lab tests that are usually done are thyrotropin
receptor antibodies, radioactive iodine uptake, and measurement of thyroidal blood
flow on ultrasonography.
Remember that radioactive iodine is contraindicated in pregnancy.
If TRAb are positive, the diagnosis is Graves’ disease. Radioactive iodine uptake can
help us differentiate Graves’ disease from other causes of hyperthyroidism. A toxic
adenoma will be seen as a focal increase in uptake, toxic multinodular goiter appears
as multiple areas of focal increased with areas of suppressed uptake, and Graves’
disease appears as a diffuse increase in uptake.

31
Antithyroid drugs such as propylthiouracil can help restore the euthyroid state of the
patient. The production of TRAb may cease. However, they are not useful for toxic
nodules, as hyperthyroidism will recur as soon as the drug is stopped.
For diffuse toxic goiter and toxic nodular goiter, subtotal thyroidectomy is beneficial
in restoring a euthyroid state. However, recurrence is still possible.
Radioiodine can beneficial to the patient, as it reduces the mass of functioning
thyroid tissue. Eye signs may be aggravated by radioiodine therapy. One of the
complications is post-treatment hypothyroidism. It is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Hypothyroidism

There are numerous causes for hypothyroidism. Iodine insufficiency is the most
common cause in deficient areas. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common
cause in areas with sufficient iodine. It is a chronic autoimmune destructive
lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid. Reidel’s thyroiditis is another chronic cause of
hypothyroidism. It’s a benign progressive inflammatory thyroid enlargement with
fibrosis that presents as an enlarged painless thyroid. Hypothyroidism may be a result
of over treating hyperthyroidism or of thyroid surgery or acute suppurative thyroiditis
by strep or staph infection/

Hypothyroidism may be asymptomatic, but commonly manifests as slowed mental

and physical activity. The patients may complain of fatigue, weight gain despite
decreased appetite, cold intolerance, joint pain, depression, emotional lability,
constipation, blurred vision, hoarseness, dry skin, thinning of hair, and menorrhagia
in females.

32
Since signs and symptoms are usually inconclusive in hypothyroidism, we rely
heavily on investigations. High serum TSH and low free T4 are indicative of primary
hypothyroidism, which makes up about 95% of hypothyroidism cases. Central
hypothyroidism is diagnosed by low serum T4 and TSH that isn’t appropriately
elevated. Serum thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies are not routinely measured, as
most hypothyroidism patients have Hashimoto. They are found to be elevated in over
90% of Hashimoto patients.

The preferred treatment for hypothyroidism is synthetic thyroxine (T4). Surgery may
be indicated to reduce goiter size if it’s too large and causes discomfort in
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

33
 Parathyroid
⁂ Embryology: The four parathyroid glands, like the thymus, arise from endodermal
epithelial cells. They develop between the fifth and twelfth week of gestation. The
fourth branchial pouch gives rise to the superior parathyroid glands. The third
branchial pouch gives rise to the inferior parathyroid glands. Since these glands have
a longer descent, variations in position are more likely. The inferior glands are
closely associated with the thymus and the inferior thyroid pole. Ectopic parathyroid
glands may be found anywhere along the common origins of the parathyroid, thyroid
and thymus. About 10% of the population are found to have 3 glands, 5% have 5
glands.
⁂ Anatomy: The normal parathyroid glands weigh about 35-50 milligrams. Their
color can vary from light yellow to brown red. They are most commonly oval,
spherical or bean shaped. They are located at the postero-lateral aspect of the thyroid
gland. The superior glands are found on the junction between the upper third and
lower two thirds at the posterior aspect of the thyroid. They are posterior to the
recurrent laryngeal nerve. The inferior glands are anterior to the recurrent laryngeal
nerve.
Blood supply: Both the superior and inferior glands are supplied by the inferior
thyroidal artery. In about 20% of the population, the superior glands are supplied by
the superior thyroidal artery.
Venous drainage: The parathyroid glands’ venous drainage comes from the superior,
middle and inferior thyroid veins, which then drain into the internal jugular vein or
the innominate vein.
Nerve supply: The nerve supply is usually directly from superior or middle cervical
ganglia.
⁂ Physiology: There are two types of cells in the parathyroid glands. Chief cells are
the more predominant cell type. They are responsible for production and secretion of
PTH in response to low calcium levels or high magnesium levels. Oxyphil cells are
larger and scattered in between chief cells. Their function is unknown. They may
secrete PTH in cases of hyperparathyroidism.
The major function of PTH, an 84 amino acid peptide, is to increase the calcium
levels, but it also decreases serum phosphate. It does this by increased calcium
absorption, phosphate excretion and increased hydroxylation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D
in the kidneys, increased calcium absorption in the GIT (duodenum and proximal

34
jejunum) and bone breakdown. It has a half-life of about 4 minutes. The active form
of Vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D) in turn increases the absorption of calcium
as well as phosphate in the intestine.
The functions of calcium in the body include contraction of muscles and secretion of
glands, neuromuscular junction conduction, acting as a second messenger and
coenzyme, and functioning in blood coagulation. About 40% of calcium in serum is
bound to albumin, 50% is free and 10% is bound to phosphate and citrate.
⁂ Main signs and symptoms: Signs and symptoms of parathyroid pathology are
usually vague. Most common signs and symptoms include kidney stones, abdominal
pain, pathological fractures, osteoporosis, muscle pain, and anxiety. Other symptoms
that are even less specific are weight loss, weakness, constipation, and anorexia.
⁂ Main Investigations: Common investigations for parathyroid pathologies are
serum levels of PTH, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium. Urine calcium is also
useful. For imaging, ultrasound, sestamibi scan, CT scan, or MRI scan may be used.

Hyperparathyroidism

Definition: Hyperparathyroidism is defined as excessive secretion of PTH.

Primary hyperparathyroidism: In most cases, primary hyperparathyroidism is

caused by one single adenoma. However multiple adenomas may be found as well.
Hyperplasia or cancer of the parathyroid glands can cause hyperparathyroidism too.
Parathyroid carcinoma, which is a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism (1%),
usually affects a single gland. Risk factors for this type of hyperparathyroidism
include family history and MEN 1 and MEN 2A, and irradiation.
Secondary hyperparathyroidism: Chronic kidney disease is the most common
cause of secondary hyperparathyroidism. Vitamin D deficiency, intestinal
malabsorption of calcium and liver disease are other causes.
Tertiary hyperparathyroidism: Non-suppressible PTH secretion and slow
involution of enlarged glands are causes for tertiary hyperparathyroidism.

35
As mentioned briefly above, there are three types of hyperparathyroidism; primary,
secondary, and tertiary. Primary hyperparathyroidism caused by adenomas results in
loss of normal feedback on PTH by extracellular calcium. In parathyroid hyperplasia,
the increase in the number of cells producing PTH is the most likely cause.
Secondary hyperparathyroidism due to chronic kidney disease results from calcium
wasting. Tertiary hyperparathyroidism is persistent excess secretion of PTH after
correction of secondary hyperparathyroidism due to loss of the negative
feedback of calcium.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Most commonly asymptomatic
• Signs and symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism that can be seen may be
remembered by “stones, bones, groans and psychiatric moans.”
• Kidney stones
• Bone pain, osteoporosis, pathological fractures
• Muscle pain and weakness
• Pancreatitis
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Coma
• Depression and anxiety
• Anorexia and weight loss
• Hypertension
• Polyuria and Polydipsia
• Lethargy
• Symptoms are usually due to hypercalcemia itself. Increases in calcium levels
may cause increased gastric acid secretion, making patients more susceptible to
peptic ulcer disease.
• A palpable parathyroid gland, a painful neck, recurrent laryngeal nerve
paralysis may be signs of malignancy.
• Secondary hyperparathyroidism is often incidentally discovered on routine lab
tests for chronic kidney disease patients. In these cases, there is often no unique
clinical presentation. Patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism due to

36
 Vitamin D deficiency develop symptoms that are due to the vitamin deficiency,
such as increased fracture risk or bone pain.
• Tertiary hyperparathyroidism manifests by the effects of hypercalcemia and
hyperphosphatemia. The patients may note fatigue, lethargy, and bone pain.

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a biochemical diagnosis. We must confirm it by

elevated serum calcium concentrations and elevated PTH concentration; we may also
test for serum phosphate levels, which will be low. Vitamin D levels as well as
creatinine are usually normal, and 24-hour calcium excretion may be normal or
elevated. If malignancy is suspected, we may obtain human chorionic gonadotropin,
as it is a tumor marker for parathyroid carcinoma.
If PTH is only slightly elevated or within the normal range, familial hypocalciuric
hypercalcemia (explained later) may be a differential diagnosis. To rule this out, we
do a 24 hour urinary collection.
After biochemical testing, we may go for imaging if a surgery is planned. Sestamibi
scanning is the most accurate imaging method for the parathyroid glands. It is safe.
Sestamibi accumulates in mitochondria and later washes out at different speeds,
depending on the amount of mitochondria within tissues. Parathyroid adenomas have
high mitochondrial content and therefore have slow washout. Ultrasound is another
imaging method used. Parathyroid adenomas appear oval or elongated and
hyperechoic. Other imaging methods used are MRI, CT, and more rarely parathyroid
angiography and venous PTH sampling. If X-rays are done, subperiosteal bone
resorption may be found, typically in the hands.
If secondary hyperparathyroidism is suspected, PTH, calcium, phosphorous and 25-
hydroxyvitamin should be measured. Calcium levels are typically low to normal,
PTH is elevated, phosphate levels are elevated and vitamin D deficiency is evident.
Imaging of the parathyroid glands is not indicated unless primary
hyperparathyroidism is suspected.
Tertiary hyperparathyroidism is difficult to distinguish from primary
hyperparathyroidism. Calcium and PTH levels are elevated.

The mainstay of primary hyperparathyroidism treatment is surgery. If a single

adenoma was confirmed by imaging, minimally invasive parathyroidectomy is done.
Where imaging fails to identify abnormalities, bilateral neck exploration is

37
performed. If hyperplasia is discovered, a four-gland parathyroidectomy is performed
and at least 30 mg of parathyroid tissue is placed into the patient’s forearm. In case of
carcinoma, we remove the tumor and the ipsilateral thyroid lobe in addition to
enlarged lymph nodes.
Secondary hyperparathyroidism is most commonly treated by medical therapy.
Replacement of calcium, vitamin D and reduction of phosphate by phosphate binders
are considered standard management. A new class of drugs that reduces PTH levels
by binding to and activating calcium sensing receptors, known as calcimimetics, are
also used. For chronic kidney disease patients, renal replacement remains the only
definite treatment. Parathyroidectomy may be performed in case of
hyperphosphatemia and hypercalcemia refractive to medical treatment, and severely
impaired quality of life.
The definite treatment of tertiary hyperparathyroidism is surgery.
Parathyroidectomy may be complicated by recurrent or superior laryngeal nerve
injury, permanent hypoparathyroidism and post-operative hypocalcemia, persistent or
recurrent hyperparathyroidism, and neck hematoma. Signs and symptoms of
hypocalcemia include perioral numbness, paresthesia, tetany, Chovstek’s sign, and
Trousseau's sign.

Indications of surgery in asymptomatic hyperparathyroidism:

• Age <50
• Patients who cannot get appropriate follow up
• Serum Ca >1mg above normal range
• Urine Ca >400mg (obsolete criterion)
• 30% decrease in creatinine clearance
• Complications of hyperparahyroidism including nephrocalcinosis and
osteofibrosis

Note: The most common cause of hypercalcemia in hospitalized patients is cancer,

while the most common cause of hypercalcemia in outpatients is
hyperparathyroidism.
DDx of hypercalcemia: CHIMPANZEES
1) Calcium overdose
2) Hyperparathyroidism
3) Immobility/iatrogenic
4) Metastasis/milk alkali syndrome
5) Paget’s disease
6) Addison’s/acromegaly
7) Neoplasm
8) Zollinger Ellison syndrome
9) Excessive vitamin A
10) Excessive vitamin D
11) Sarcoidosis
38
 Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia

FHH is a condition of autosomal dominant inheritance, resulting from a mutation in

calcium sensing receptors leading to loss of feedback inhibition. It is characterized by
mild hypercalcemia in a young asymptomatic patient. These patients have a normal or
slightly elevated PTH, increased serum magnesium and hypocalciuria.
To differentiate between primary hyperparathyroidism and FHH, we obtain a urinary
calcium/creatinine clearance ratio (24 hour urine collection). In FHH this ratio
will be low. Patients usually don’t need any medical or surgical interventions.

39
 Pancreas
⁂ Embryology:
During the 4th week of gestation, the pancreas begins to develop from the duodenal endoderm.
Two buds form (which then rotate and fuse by the 8th week):
VENTRAL BUD (from the convex part of the duodenum) →Uncinate process and part of the head
DORSAL BUD (from the concave part of the duodenum) → Remaining part of the head, neck,
body and tail.
The ventral bud rotates with the duodenum and then migrates posteriorly to fuse with the dorsal
part. The ventral duct (the bud’s duct) will take over and open into the duodenum at the ampulla of
Vater →Wirsung duct (main pancreatic duct).
The dorsal duct may persist and opens into the the duodenum at a minor opening 2 cm medial and
above the ampulla of Vater, BUT it usually disappears → Santorini duct.
At the 3rd- 4th month, islets of Langerhans appear and become active.

⁂ Anatomy:
• A retroperitoneal organ.
• Divided into head, uncinate process, neck, body and tail.
• The head is within the curve of the duodenum. Posterior to it are the vena cava and 2nd
lumbar vertebra.
• The neck lies anterior to the aorta and superior mesenteric vessels.
• The portal vein forms behind the neck of the pancreas, by the joining of the splenic and
superior mesenteric vein.
• The tail extends to the hilum of the spleen.
• The pancreas weighs about 85 g.
• Clusters of endocrine cells, called islet of Langerhans are distributed all over the pancreas.
Islets are made of various types of cells: 75% Beta cells (produce insulin and C-peptide) and
20% Alpha cells (produce glucagon). The remaining cells are Delta cells (produce
somatostatin) and pancreatic polypeptide cells (produce vasoactive intestinal peptide).
Blood supply:
❖ The head of the pancreas is supplied by the Anterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery
and the posterior superior pancreaticoduodenal artery (branches of the gastroduodenal
artery, which comes from the celiac trunk) as well as the anterior inferior
pancreaticoduodenal and posterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries (branches of the
superior mesenteric artery).
❖ The rest of the pancreas is supplied by the dorsal pancreatic artery, a branch of the splenic
artery.
(The venous drainage follows the arterial supply.)

40
Nerve supply:
❖ Parasympathetic nerve supply → posterior vagal trunk via the celiac branch.
❖ Sympathetic nerve supply (pain sensation) → thoracic splanchnic nerves and the celiac
plexus.

⁂ Physiology:
❖ Glucagon, secreted by the alpha cells, is regulated by the blood glucose concentration. When
blood glucose is decreased or blood amino acids increased, secretion of glucagon is
stimulated. Glucagon is responsible for increasing the blood glucose concentration. It does
this by acting on the liver and adipose tissue, increasing glycogenolysis and
gluconeogenesis. Other effects of glucagon are increasing lipolysis and urea production.

❖ Insulin, which is secreted by the beta cells, is regulated by the blood glucose concentration
as well. In the case of increased blood glucose, insulin is secreted. The effects of insulin are
mainly on the liver, muscle and adipose tissue. Insulin is responsible for lowering the blood
glucose concentrations and it does so by increasing the uptake of glucose into target cells
that have glucose transporters in their cell membrane. In the muscle and liver glucose is
incorporated into glycogen, while glycogenolysis is inhibited. Another way insulin
decreases the blood concentration of glucose is by decreasing gluconeogenesis. Other
actions of insulin include decreased blood fatty acids, amino acid concentration and
potassium ions.

❖ Delta cells are responsible for the secretion of somatostatin, which in turn inhibits secretion
of gastrin, insulin, glucagon, and small bowel electrolytes.

❖ Polypeptide cells secrete vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), which is also released by
other organs of the GIT. VIP acts to produce relaxation of the smooth muscles in the GIT,
one example being the lower esophageal sphincter.

Pancreatic Endocrine Tumors

Definition: Pancreatic endocrine tumors, also known as islet cell tumors, are a rare type of
neoplasm. They arise from the endocrine tissues of the pancreas.

Epidemiology: Pancreatic endocrine tumors make up 5% of clinically detected pancreatic tumors.

They may be single or multiple, benign or malignant. All of these tumors are usually malignant,
except for insulinomas.

41
Pancreatic endocrine tumors can be functional, producing specific symptoms of the hormones
released, or non-functional (50-75% of cases), presenting similar to pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In
10-20% of cases, they are associated with MEN 1.
In most cases, these neoplasms are sporadic, but in some cases they are associated with hereditary
syndromes, such as MEN1 (10-20% of cases), von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, and neurofibromatosis
type. About 80-100% of MEN1 patients, 20% of VHL patients and 10% of NF1 patients develop a
pancreatic endocrine tumor.
These tumors can become apparent at any age, but most commonly do so between the fourth and
sixth decades of life. Potential risk factors for pancreatic endocrine tumors are smoking, diabetes
and history of chronic pancreatitis.

Insulinoma

Definition: An insulinoma is a type of pancreatic endocrine tumor that produces insulin.

Epidemiology: Insulinomas are the most frequent type of functioning pancreatic endocrine
tumors. Their incidence is about 2-4 cases per million per year. Women are slightly more likely to
be affected than men.

There are no known risk factors for this type of pancreatic endocrine tumor and its etiology is
unknown.

The pathogenesis of insulinomas is currently unknown.

Patients with an insulinoma commonly present with fasting hypoglycemia symptoms (Whipple’s
triad: hypoglycemic syndromes, blood glucose <50 mg/dL during attack and symptoms relived by
IV glucose) and neuroglycopenic symptoms including diplopia, blurred vision, abnormal behavior
and amnesia. The secretion of catecholamines results in sweating, weakness, tremor, anxiety,
tachycardia, hunger, anxiety and palpitations.

42
 • It can be difficult to distinguish insulinomas from other causes of hypoglycemia such as
hormonal deficiencies, hepatic insufficiency and medications.
• The most sensitive test is a fasting test, in which insulin, proinsulin, C-peptide and blood
glucose are measured in 1 to 2 hour intervals. The diagnosis can be established if
inappropriately high insulin concentrations are found as well as increased levels of C
peptide and proinsulin during hypoglycemia.
• Elevated C-peptide can help exclude factitious hypoglycemia, which is caused by insulin
injections.
• After diagnosis of insulinoma, imaging techniques are used. Transabdominal ultrasound is
the preferred initial test. CT and MRI may be used as well.
• Endoscopic ultrasound and selective arterial calcium stimulation are more invasive imaging
modalities.

Medical treatment is used if the patient is unfit for surgery or disease is unresectable. Diazoxide
directly acts on beta cells and suppresses insulin secretion. Chemotherapy may be another option.
All patients should be advised to undergo surgical excision of the insulinoma. Some of the options
available are enucleation of the insulinoma (removing only tumor cells), debulking of the tumor
(removing only part of the tumor, as the rest passes through important structures), partial distal
pancreatectomy, and whipple procedure. The procedure of choice depends on extent of tumor
extension.
The most prevalent complication after insulinoma resection is hyperglycemia. It usually persists for
the first 48-72 hours after surgery. If glucose levels are above 300 mg/dL subcutaneous insulin may
become necessary. Patients that underwent major pancreatic resections may develop diabetes, for
this reason, we sometimes begin with medical treatment before going for the surgery.

43
 Gastrinoma (Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome)

Definition: A gastrinoma is a gastrin-secreting tumor that can occur in the pancreas, although it is
most commonly found in the duodenum. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a condition that includes
non-beta islet cell pancreas tumors (gastrinoma), recurrent ulcers in the stomach duodenum or
atypical sites despite adequate treatment.

Epidemiology: Gastrinomas are the second most common type of functioning pancreatic
endocrine tumors. ZES is more common in men, with a mean age of 38 at symptom onset.

• The etiology of gastrinomas is unknown.

• More than 60% of gastrinomas are malignant.
• More than 70% of the tumors are found in the gastrinoma triangle, which is made of: cystic
duct/common bile duct junction, head and neck of the pancreas, junction of the second and
third part of duodenum.
• One fourth of gastrinomas are associated with MEN 1.

• Tumor cells secrete high amounts of gastrin, which causes hyperplasia of fundic parietal
cells and results in increased acid secretion. This results in ulceration that may extend as far
as the small intestine.

44
 • Acidic contents in the small intestine stimulate secretin release, resulting in diarrhea.

Signs and Symptoms:

• More than 90% of patients have peptic ulcer disease, often multiple or at unusual sites.
• Chronic diarrhea
• Abdominal pain (seen in 75%)
• Weight loss

Complications:
• Bleeding
• Stricture formation
• Perforation

• The diagnosis of ZES can be confirmed by a gastric pH <2.5 and serum gastrin
concentration >1000 pg/mL.
• Secretin stimulation test is used to distinguish gastrinoma from the other
differentials.
• The differential diagnosis includes GERD, idiopathic peptic ulcer disease, chronic atrophic
gastritis, gastric outlet stenosis and retained antrum after gastric resection.
• Imaging studies that are useful in localizing the tumor are: somatostatin receptor
scintigraphy (SRS), endoscopic ultrasonography, CT and MRI.

Medical:
• Gastric hypersecretion can be treated with PPI or octreotide.
• Chemotherapy is used in patients with diffuse metastases.

Surgical:
• Surgery is indicated in all patients without metastases.
• About 40% of patients end up with hyperacidity postoperatively and need prolonged
antisecretory therapy.

45
 VIPoma
• These tumors secrete vasoactive intestinal peptides.
• This type is rare.
• Thye are usually solitary.
• May be associated with MEN 1
• Symtomps :
❖ Patients have VIPoma syndrome which consists of watery diarrhea that persists with
fasting.
❖ Symptoms related to hypokalemia and dehydration: lethargy, muscle weakness and
cramps, nausea and vomiting.
❖ Hypocalcemia
❖ Achlorhydria/hypochlorhydria
• Diagnosis: increased VIP >75 pg/mL, decreased K+
• Symptomatic treatment consists of replacing the fluid and electrolytes that are lost and
somatostatin analogues, which control diarrhea.
• Treated by resection (distal pancreatectomy, since it is usually in the dital pancreas)

Glucagonoma
• Glucagon secreting tumor, rare and usually solitary.
• Symptoms:
❖ Weight loss
❖ Anemia
❖ Glucose intolerance/diabetes mellitus
❖ Characteristic skin rash (Necrolytic migratory erythema)
❖ Hypoaminoacidemia
• Diagnosed by increased plasma glucagon >500 pg/mL
• Treatment :resection

Somatostatinoma

• Rare
• D-cell tumor; secreting somatostatin
• Usually in the head of pancreas
• Clinical presentation (3D’s):
❖ Diarrhea
❖ Diabetes
❖ Dilated gallbladder with stones

46
 Diabetic foot

Definition: A diabetic foot is a foot that exhibits any pathology that results directly
from diabetes mellitus or any long-term (or "chronic") complication of diabetes
mellitus.

Epidemiology
Diabetic foot lesions are responsible for more hospitalizations than any other
complication of diabetes. Among patients with diabetes, 15% develop a foot ulcer, and
12-24% of individuals with a foot ulcer require amputation.

Diabetic neuropathy tends to occur about 10 years after the onset of diabetes, and,
therefore, diabetic foot deformity and ulceration occur sometime thereafter.

Prognosis
Mortality in people with diabetes and foot ulcers is often the result of associated large
vessel arteriosclerotic disease involving the coronary or renal arteries.

1) Neuropathy
2) Arterial disease
3) Pressure
4) Foot deformity
- The anatomy of the foot must be considered in risk calculation. A person with flatfoot
is more likely to have disproportionate stress across the foot and may have
an increased risk for tissue inflammation in high-stress regions.

47
Atherosclerosis and peripheral neuropathy occur with increased frequency in persons
with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Regarding atherosclerosis, people with diabetes mellitus (DM) have a higher incidence
of the disease, thickening of capillary basement membranes, arteriolar hyalinosis, and
endothelial proliferation.

The reason for the prevalence of this form of arterial disease in diabetic persons is
thought to result from a number of metabolic abnormalities, including high low-density
lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels, elevated plasma von
Willebrand factor, inhibition of prostacyclin synthesis, elevated plasma fibrinogen
levels, and increased platelet adhesiveness.

The pathophysiology of diabetic peripheral neuropathy is multifactorial, the result of

loss of sensation in the foot is repetitive stress; unnoticed injuries and fractures;
structural foot deformity, such as hammertoes, bunions, metatarsal deformities, or
Charcot foot; further stress; and eventual tissue breakdown.

Unnoticed excessive heat or cold, pressure from a poorly fitting shoe, or damage from a
blunt or sharp object inadvertently left in the shoe may cause blistering and ulceration.
These factors, combined with poor arterial inflow, confer a high risk of limb loss on the
patient with diabetes.

Signs and Symptoms:

Patients usually present with symptoms indicative of possible peripheral neuropathy
or peripheral arterial insufficiency.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy

• Hypoesthesia
• Hyperesthesia
• Paresthesia

48
 • Dysesthesia
• Radicular pain
• Anhydrosis
Symptoms of peripheral arterial insufficiency
Most people harboring atherosclerotic disease of the lower extremities are
asymptomatic; others develop ischemic symptoms.

Patients who are symptomatic may present with intermittent claudication, ischemic
pain at rest, nonhealing ulceration of the foot, or frank ischemia of the foot.
On physical examination, diabetic ulcers tend to occur in the following areas:
• Areas most subjected to weight bearing, such as the heel, plantar metatarsal
head areas, the tips of the most prominent toes (usually the first or second), and
the tips of hammer toes (ulcers also occur over the malleoli because these areas
commonly are subjected to trauma)
• Areas most subjected to stress, such as the dorsal portion of hammer toes
Other physical findings include the following:
• Hypertrophic calluses
• Brittle nails
• Hammer toes
• Fissures
There might be signs of possible peripheral arterial insufficiency especially
absent or diminished peripheral pulses below a certain level.
PE might also disclose signs of peripheral neuropathy include:
• Loss of vibratory and position sense
• Loss of deep tendon reflexes (especially loss of the ankle jerk)
• Trophic ulceration
• Foot drop
• Muscle atrophy
• Excessive callous formation, especially overlying pressure points such as the
heel.

49
 • Hx and PE
• Blood tests
-CBC ; watch for anemia which might impair healing, leukocytosis might be a
sign for underlying infection or plantar abcess,
-Serum glucose, glycohemoglobin, and creatinine levels helps to determine the
adequacy of acute and chronic glycemic control and the status of renal function.
-Blood testing should also
include hemoglobin A1c
(HbA1c) assessment
because a normal value is
a surrogate marker for
wound healing

• Pulse-volume recording
• Ultrasonography
-Doppler U/S can help estimate extent of disease and degree of stenosis

• Ankle-brachial index
- Equals the systolic pressure in the dorsalis pedis or posterior tibial artery
divided by the upper extremity systolic pressure
-Normal = 1.0 , if < 0.9 it suggests atherosclerosis, an ABI below 0.3 suggests a
poor chance for healing of distal ischemic ulcerations.
- The ABI often is falsely elevated (and thus may be unreliable) if the underlying
arteries are heavily calcified, a finding common in diabetic persons.

• Radiography
• Computed tomography and MRI (indicated if a plantar abscess is suspected but
not clear on physical examination)
• Angiography.

50
 • Optimal control of blood glucose, and evaluation and correction of peripheral
arterial insufficiency.
• Offloading the wound by using appropriate therapeutic footwear
• Daily saline or similar dressings to provide a moist wound environment
• Debridement when necessary
• Antibiotic therapy if osteomyelitis or cellulitis is present

Physicians of diabetic patients with ulcers must decide between the sometimes
conflicting options of
(1) performing invasive procedures (eg, angiography, bypass surgery) for limb
salvage
(2) avoiding the risks of unnecessarily aggressive management in these patients,
who may have significant cardiac risk.

In general, the greatest legal risks are associated with delay in diagnosis of ischemia
associated with diabetic ulceration, failure to aggressively debride and treat
infection, and failure to treat the wound carefully.

Check surgery (OSCE) dossier.

51
 Adrenal Gland
❖ Anatomy:
• Two endocrine glands that produce steroid hormones (from the cortex) and
Adrenaline (from the medulla).
• Size: height and thickness are about 5 cm; width is 1–2 cm
• Location:
o Primary retroperitoneal organs.
o Each gland is located superior to the upper pole of the kidney.
o Enclosed by the renal fascia and adipose capsule of the kidney.

❖ Embryology:
• Adrenal cortex: derived from mesoderm
• Adrenal medulla: derived from the neural crest.

❖ Vasculature:
• Arterial blood supply
o Superior suprarenal artery (from the inferior phrenic artery)
o Medial suprarenal artery (from the abdominal aorta)
o Inferior suprarenal artery (from the renal artery)
• Venous drainage
o Right suprarenal vein into the inferior cava vein
o Left suprarenal vein into the left renal vein
• Lymph drainage: left aortic lymph nodes; right caval lymph nodes.

❖ Innervation:
• Sympathetic: major and minor splanchnic nerves
• Parasympathetic: vagal nerve

52
 ❖ Microscopic anatomy:
Adrenal cortex:
• Surrounded by a fibrous capsule
• Layers of the cortex:
o Zona glomerulosa: cells arranged in oval clusters surrounded by connective
tissue from the fibrous capsule.
Function: mineralocorticoi
d synthesis.
o Zona fasciculata: cells arranged in straight columns that are separated by small
fibrous septa.
Function:
glucocorticoid synthesis.
o Zona reticularis: small cells arranged in an irregular netlike formation
surrounded by connective tissue and capillaries.
Function: androgen synthe
sis.

Adrenal Medulla:
• Large chromaffin cells with many secretory granules (catecholamine

Storage)
o Chromaffin cells originate in the neural crest and migrate to the paraganglia and
adrenal medulla during embryonic development.
o Tumors originating from chromaffin cells are called pheochromocytomas.
• Function: synthesis of catecholamines.

❖ Physiology:
o CRH is secreted from the hypothalamus in response to stress, decreased serum
cortisol, and in a circadian rhythm. It increases ACTH secretion from the anterior
pituitary.
o ACTH follows a circadian rhythm, level is highest in the morning.
o ACTH increases the secretion of all cortex hormones, but it has no effect on the
adrenal medulla.

53
Important diseases associated with the:
-> Adrenal cortex:
Hypocortisolism
Hypercortisolism
Primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn syndrome)
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
Androgen-secreting tumors

Important diseases associated with the:

-> Adrenal medulla:
Pheochromocytoma
Neuroblastoma

54
 Cushing’s syndrome

Cushing's syndrome, or hypercortisolism, is an endocrine disorder that is most often

caused iatrogenically by the exogenous administration of glucocorticoids. Less
commonly, Cushing's syndrome can result from endogenous overproduction of cortisol.
• Primary hypercortisolism is the result of autonomous overproduction
of cortisol by the adrenal gland (e.g., adrenal adenoma, adrenal carcinoma).
• Secondary hypercortisolism, on the other hand, is the result of increased
production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), either
by pituitary microadenomas (Cushing's disease) or by ectopic, paraneoplastic foci
(e.g., small cell lung cancer).

It can be either:
1- Exogenous: prolonged glucocorticosteroid therapy, most common
cause.
2- Endogenous:
Types Primary Secondary (ACTH-dependent)
(ACTH-independent Pituitary ACTH Ectopic ACTH
Cushing syndrome) production production
(Cushing’s disease)
Frequency 5-10% 75% 15%
Sex Females>Males Females>Males Females=Males
4:1 4:1
Causes Adrenal adenoma ACTH secreting Paraneoplastic
Adrenal carcinoma pituitary adenoma syndrome (Small cell
Macronodular adrenal lung carcinoma,
hyperplasia Renal cell
carcinoma…)

55
• Skin
o Thin, easily bruisable skin with stretch marks (classically purple
abdominal striae) and/or ecchymoses.
o Delayed wound healing
o Flushing of the face
o Hirsutism
o Acne
o If secondary hypercortisolism: often hyperpigmentation, especially in areas that
are not normally exposed to the sun (e.g., palm creases, oral cavity)
▪ Caused by excessive ACTH production because melanocyte stimulating
hormone is cleaved from the same precursor as ACTH.
▪ Hyperpigmentation is not a feature of primary hypercortisolism.
• Neuropsychological: lethargy, depression, sleep disturbance, psychosis, emotional
liability.
• Musculoskeletal
o Osteopenia, osteoporosis, pathological fractures, avascular necrosis of the
femoral head.
o Muscle atrophy/weakness
• Endocrine and metabolic
o Insulin resistance → hyperglycemia → mild polyuria in the case of
severe hyperglycemia
o Dyslipidemia
Weight gain characterized by central obesity, moon faces, and a buffalo hump.
o ♂: decreased libido
Note:
o ♀: decreased libido, virilization, and/or irregular Pseudo-Cushing's syndrome is
a clinical syndrome that
menstrual cycles
resembles Cushing’s in its
• Secondary hypertension (∼ 90% of cases) presentation; however, the
adrenals are normal. The most
• Increased susceptibility to infections common causes include
• Peptic ulcer disease obesity, alcoholism, and
depression.
• Cataracts

56
1- History and physical would show the clinical features mentioned before.
2- General lab findings: Hyperglycemia, Hypernatremia, Hypokalemia,
Hyperlipidemia, Metabolic alkalosis.
3- Tests for hypercortisolism:
a. ↑ 24-hour urine cortisol
b. ↑ Early morning serum cortisol levels following a low-dose dexamethasone
suppression test.
c. ↑ Midnight salivary cortisol.

57
Exogenous Cushing's syndrome
• Consider lowering the dose of glucocorticoids
• Consider the use of alternatives to glucocorticoids (e.g., azathioprine)

Endogenous Cushing's syndrome

• Operable disease: surgical therapy is the treatment of choice
o Adrenocortical tumor: laparoscopic or open adrenalectomy
o Pituitary adenoma: transsphenoidal resection of the pituitary adenoma
o ACTH-secreting ectopic tumor: resection of the ectopic foci (e.g., bronchial
carcinoid)
• Inoperable disease
o Drugs to suppress cortisol synthesis: metyrapone, mitotane, Ketoconazole.

58
 Pheochromocytoma

Definition: A pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-secreting tumor typically located

in the adrenal medulla.
Epidemiology:
*Age range: 3rd–5th decades of life
*Present in up to 1% of all hypertensive patients

• Tumor arise from chromaffin cells, which are derived from the neural crest, Locations
include:
o ∼ 90% adrenal medulla (physiologically activated by acetylcholine)
o ∼ 10% extra-adrenal in the sympathetic ganglia
o ∼ 10% at multiple locations
o The majority of pheochromocytomas are benign, unilateral, catecholamine-
producing tumors.
o Rarely, pheochromocytomas also produce other hormones such as EPO.
• 25% of pheochromocytomas are hereditary. Associations include:
o Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2A, MEN 2B)
o Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)
o Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease

*“10 percent rule”- roughly 10% of pheochromocytomas are: extra-adrenal,

multiple, bilateral, malignant, pediatric cases, not associated with hypertension,
show calcifications on imaging!

59
Clinical presentation is related to fluctuating levels of excess epinephrine,
norepinephrine, and dopamine.
• Episodic hypertension (or persistent hypertension in some cases)
• Paroxysmal:
o Throbbing headache
o Diaphoresis
o Heart palpitations and tachycardia
o Pallor Differential diagnosis:
o Abdominal pain and nausea o Labile essential hypertension
o Anxiety
o Anxiety o Hyperthyroidism
• Weight loss due to increased basal metabolism o Hypoglycemia
o Menopausal flushing
• Hyperglycemia o Carcinoid (rare)
• If EPO is secreted, signs of polycythemia
• Other signs and symptoms consistent with associated familial disorders:
MEN 2A: medullary thyroid cancer, pheochromocytoma, and
parathyroid hyperplasia.
MEN 2B: medullary thyroid cancer, pheochromocytoma,
oral/intestinal neuromas, and marfanoid habitus
NF1: cutaneous neurofibromas, café-au-lait spots, and Lisch nodules
VHL: renal cell carcinoma, hemangioblastoma, angiomatosis, and
pheochromocytoma.

Whenever possible, all medications should be put on hold one week prior to testing.
Best initial test: metanephrines in plasma (high sensitivity)
Confirmatory test: metanephrines and catecholamines in 24-hour urine
(high specificity)
Genetic testing: if MEN2A, MEN2B, NF1, or VHL is suspected
Other tests:
• 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring

60
 • Adrenal/abdominal CT or MRI (after positive biochemistry tests to localize tumor)
and other imaging tests to if MEN (2A, 2B) is suspected.

→ Operable disease: Management consists of preoperative blood pressure

management and then surgery.
• Preoperative blood pressure management: Combined alpha and beta-
adrenergic blockade
o First, a non-selective alpha blocker is given: phenoxybenzamine blocks alpha-1
and alpha-2 adrenoceptors equally and irreversibly.
o After sufficient alpha-adrenergic blockade, a beta blocker may be started for
additional blood pressure control and control of tachyarrhythmias.
• Treatment of choice: laparoscopic tumor resection (adrenalectomy)
o "No-touch" technique (squeezing the mass might release massive amount of
catecholamines).
o Open surgical resection is reserved for large or invasive tumors.
Important: Starting beta blockers before alpha blockade is contraindicated. Beta
blockers cancel out the vasodilatory effect of peripheral beta-2 adrenoceptors, potentially
leading to:

Unopposed alpha-adrenoceptor stimulation → vasoconstriction → hypertensive crisis

→ Inoperable disease
• Benign pheochromocytoma: primary therapy with phenoxybenzamine.
• Malignant pheochromocytoma: MIBG therapy; otherwise, palliative treatment
(chemotherapy, tumor embolization).

61
 Adrenal Incidentaloma
An adrenal incidentaloma is a mass lesion greater than 1 cm in diameter, discovered by
radiologic examination (CT or MRI). Most of them are non-functioning masses and up to
15% are bilateral masses.

➔ All patients with incidentalomas should have the following tests:

Blood pressure and serum potassium (Zona glomerulosa)
Low DST and 24-hour urine cortisol (Zona fasciculata)
Plasma fractionated metanephrine (to exclude pheochromocytoma)
Females with virilization or males with feminization should have their
Androgens tested.
*If results are normal and mass <4 cm; observe and repeat image in 3-6
Months.

➔ The mass can be:

● Benign cortical adenoma: A homogeneous adrenal mass <4 cm in diameter, with a
smooth border, and an attenuation value <10 Hounsfield unit (HU) on unenhanced
CT, and rapid contrast medium washout (>50 percent at 10 minutes).

● Adrenal carcinoma or metastases: irregular shape, inhomogeneous density, high

unenhanced CT attenuation values (>20 HU), delayed contrast medium washout (<50
percent at 10 minutes), diameter usually >4 cm, and tumor calcification.

● Pheochromocytoma should be excluded in all patients by measuring 24-hour

urinary fractionated metanephrines and catecholamines.

● Subclinical Cushing's syndrome should be ruled out by performing the 1 mg

overnight dexamethasone suppression test (DST). If the test is abnormal, confirm with
24H urine cortisol.

● Aldosteronomas: If the adrenal incidentaloma patient is hypertensive, a plasma

aldosterone-to-plasma renin activity ratio and plasma potassium concentration
should be obtained to screen for primary aldosteronism.

62
 Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN)

Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) is a term used to describe three autosomal

dominant syndromes that are associated with certain hormone-producing neoplasias.
There are three subtypes: MEN 1, MEN 2A and MEN 2B.
MEN 1 is caused by an altered menin protein expression and presents with primary
hyperparathyroidism, often in association with endocrine pancreatic tumors
and/or pituitary adenomas.
MEN 2A and MEN 2B are caused by a mutated RET proto-oncogene and both present
with medullary thyroid carcinoma and sometimes pheochromocytoma.
MEN 2A is further associated with primary hyperparathyroidism as well, while MEN
2B causes a Marfanoid habitus and sometimes neurinomas.
If any of the individual conditions associated with MEN are suspected, especially in
patients with a positive family history, it is important to consider a diagnostic workup
for any of the other associations.
Those positive for mutated genes should be closely monitored and should undergo a
total thyroidectomy if positive for the RET proto-oncogene. At the age of:
5 years if MEN 2A
1 year if MEN 2B (more aggressive presentation).

63
 MEN 1 MEN2
Wermer’s syndrome MEN 2A MEN 2B
Sipple’s syndrome
Genetics Altered menin protein Altered expression of the RET proto-
expression oncogene → elevated tyrosine kinase activity

Main disease Primary hyperparathyroidism Medullary Thyroid Cancer (almost %100 of

(~ %90 of cases) cases)
Other Pheochromocytoma (around %40 of cases)
• Endocrine pancreatic tumors
manifestations Primary *Multiple
(∼ 50–80% of cases) such as
hyperparathyroidism neurinomas
gastrinoma (most common) (%20-%30) *Marfanoid habitus
and insulinoma (more than %95)
• Pituitary adenoma (∼ 30–
50% of cases): most
commonly prolactinoma
• Carcinoid tumors (∼ 10–
15% of cases)

Management • Parathyroidectomy • Thyroidectomy including cervical lymph

• Excision of pancreatic
nodes
tumor.
• Transsphenoidal surgery
o Pheochromocytoma should first be
for pituitary adenoma. ruled out or treated before undergoing
surgery
• If pheochromocytoma (adrenalectomy)
• If hyperparathyroidism: remove
pathologic parathyroid
glands (parathyroidectomy)

Remember 3Ps 1M 2Ps 2Ms 1P

*Parathyroid
*Pancreas *Medullary thyroid *Marfanoid habitus
*Pituitary CA *Multiple
*Pheochromocytoma neurinomas
*Parathyroid *Pheochromocytoma

64
The End
Good Luck

65