INTRODUCTION: 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. MATERIALS AND 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). CONCLUSION: 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.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Burns et al. (2006) studied this question.