Non-Toxic goiter in adult goats: diagnosis and treatment (Short communication)

Fatgzim Latifi, Kastriot Belegu, Arben Sinani

Abstract: Non-toxic goiter is a simple goiter is an enlargement of thyroid gland, which developed without causing hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Little is known about this type of goiter in ruminants, particularly in alpine goats. The aim of this study was to report some interesting cases of non-toxic goiter in adult goats, as well as the diagnosis and treatment. Three adult (18- 36 months: age), female goats, with goiter, were investigated. For diagnosis, the case history and clinical signs were considered, and the goiter grade was determined. Chemical analysis of thyroid hormones of blood samples was estimated. All cases had a history of failed and dead births, with ratio 2:1 per birth, and births living and dead were born with a large sized goiter. The goiter in adult goats was ranged between grade I to II, which was simple, slightly visible and requires palpation. The thyroid hormones including, triiodothyronine (T3); Tetraiodothyronine (T4), and Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were of normal level in the blood of these cases. The treatment used in this study, including iodine supplement, selenium, and vitamin B12 was beneficial and the animal health was improved, especially with conserving supplement of iodine as food additive.

Keywords: Hypothyroidism; non-toxic goiter; thyroid gland; thyroid hormone

Citation: Latifi, F., Belegu, K. & Sinani, A. (2025). Non-Toxic goiter in adult goats: diagnosis and treatment (Short communication). Bulg. J. Agric. Sci., 31(2), 423–427.

Date published: 2025-04-28