Question:
John and Radha were classmates since childhood. When Radha became eleven years old, she developed a little swelling in her neck. She visited the
doctor who started medication for her.
After a few years, John also developed a slight protrusion on his throat. He got worried and went to the doctor. But, the doctor assured him
that it was a normal feature in boys while they are growing up. Can you think of any reasons for the difference in diagnoses?
Solution:
The swelling on the neck of Radha may have been because of goitre, a condition during which the thyroid gland produces insufficient quantity of
thyroxine. However, the protrusion in John’s throat would be due to Adam’s apple (bulge) that is a result of growth of voice box in adolescent boys.