What term describes the enlargement of the thyroid gland?

The term that describes the enlargement of the thyroid gland is "goiter." This condition can occur due to a variety of factors, including iodine deficiency, autoimmune diseases, or the presence of nodules in the thyroid. Goiter signifies that the gland is increased in size, which can happen when the thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism), underactive (hypothyroidism), or functioning normally.

Thyromegaly is a synonym for goiter, but it is not commonly used in clinical practice compared to "goiter," hence it is less recognized as the standard term. Thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland, which may not necessarily lead to enlargement but can be associated with conditions that result in swelling. Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause hypothyroidism and may lead to goiter, but it is specifically a disease process rather than the term for the enlargement itself. Therefore, "goiter" is the most precise and widely accepted term for the enlargement of the thyroid gland.