Case report of congenital goitre in a goat kid: Clinical and pathological findings

Abstract

Congenital goitre is a deadly thyroid metabolic disorder characterised by low thyroid hormone levels, subsequent secretion of excess Thyroid‐Stimulating Hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland, and compensatory thyroid gland hyperplasia. This study aimed to summarise the clinical and pathological features of congenital goitre in a goat kid. In April 2019, a dead female goat kid with a history of dystocia was referred to Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Mashhad, Iran, to examine the carcass and find the reason for death. The necropsy were performed, along with histopathology examination, and clinical signs were recorded. Examination of the foetus revealed the presence of an enlarged thyroid gland, and the skin was thick with myxedema, pale, and without hair. After cutting the skin, the swelling showed a significantly enlarged thyroid gland with two asymmetrical lobes, with the right lobe 3.9×7.1 cm and the left 3.7×7.5 cm in size. In the histopathological examination, a severe proliferation of follicular cells was observed, which caused the thyroid gland to be microscopically dense. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of recognising and addressing congenital goitre in goat kids. To prevent such tragic outcomes, it is crucial to focus on early detection and intervention. Furthermore, the agents of goitre need to find out and be clear.