Therapeutic Management of Congenital Goiter in Goat Kid: A Case Report

Abstract

Congenital goitre was clinically suspected in a 15-day-old goat kid presented with progressive bilateral swelling in the thyroid region, gasping, difficulty suckling, reduced appetite, and a low haemoglobin concentration. According to the owner, the swelling had progressively increased since birth, and the clinical presentation was consistent with involvement of the thyroid region. Clinical examination recorded a respiratory rate of 50/min, rectal temperature of 103°F, and pulse rate of 85/min; blood examination showed haemoglobin of 9 g/dL. The diagnosis was based on nutritional history, clinical signs, and the anatomical location of the enlargement. Ultrasonography and thyroid hormone measurements were unavailable, limiting confirmatory assessment. The kid was managed with oral levothyroxine sodium and potassium iodide, together with meloxicam and haematinic support. Potassium iodide was administered daily for 20 days, and the clinical response was monitored during treatment. Complete regression of the swelling and clinical recovery was observed within 20 days. The case demonstrates a favourable short-term response to combined thyroid hormone and iodine supplementation in a clinically suspected case of congenital goitre. Nevertheless, the absence of ultrasonographic confirmation and thyroid hormone estimation requires cautious interpretation of the diagnosis and the presumed iodine-deficiency aetiology. Adequate mineral and iodine supplementation during pregnancy, together with avoidance of goitrogenic feeds, remains an important preventive consideration in goat management.