Thyroid pathology and the globus symptom: are they related? A two year prospective trial.
BACKGROUND
The globus sensation is a constant feeling of a lump in the throat and may be associated with thyroid enlargement. A two year prospective study was set up to ascertain the relationship between thyroid pathology and globus symptoms.


METHODS
All patients undergoing thyroid surgery over a two year period were included. Patients were questioned pre- and post-operatively. Globus symptom scores were recorded using a visual analogue scale. The size, weight and histological features of the removed specimens were correlated and statistical analysis performed.


RESULTS
Two hundred patients were included in the study; 58 were symptomatic for globus pharyngeus pre-operatively, and 80 per cent of these patients' symptoms resolved post-operatively (p < or = 0.0001). Patients with histological features of inflammation showed the greatest improvement (p < or = 0.0001).


CONCLUSIONS
As many as one-third of patients with a thyroid mass will complain of a globus-like symptom. Patients undergoing thyroid surgery, who are symptomatic for globus pharyngeus, can expect that their symptoms will improve following surgery.
Burns
P
P
Department of Otolaryngology, Royal Victoria Eye & Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. pauljburns@eircom.net
Timon
C
C
D000328:Adult; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009929:Organ Size; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012677:Sensation; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D013961:Thyroid Gland / Q000473:pathology; D013965:Thyroidectomy; D013966:Thyroiditis / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome