The genetics of euthyroid familial goiter.
In endemic goiters, thyroidal enlargement reflects an increase in cell proliferation triggered by low dietary iodine. However, not all individuals in the same iodine-deficient regions develop a goiter, and iodine supplementation does not prevent goiter development in all treated subjects. Familial clustering of goiters, usually with an autosomal-dominant pattern of inheritance, has repeatedly been reported. Moreover, other environmental and etiological factors are likely to be involved in the development of euthyroid goiter. Therefore, a multifactorial etiology based on complex interactions of an individual's genetic makeup and environment is likely. Family and twin studies suggest a considerable influence by a strong genetic component in euthyroid familial goiter.
Böttcher
Yvonne
Y
III. Medical Department, University of Leipzig, Ph.-Rosenthal-Str. 27, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
Eszlinger
Markus
M
Tönjes
Anke
A
Paschke
Ralf
R
D005192:Family Health; D018740:Genetic Heterogeneity; D008040:Genetic Linkage; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics*; D006042:Goiter / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D009154:Mutation