Goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland located in the neck. It can be caused by iodine deficiency, inflammation, tumors, or genetic defects. There are two main types - diffuse goiter where the entire gland swells, and nodular goiter where lumps develop within the gland. Diagnosis involves blood tests, ultrasound scans, and fine needle aspiration of nodules. Treatment depends on symptoms and includes iodine/thyroid hormone supplementation, diet modification, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. Surgical risks include infection, nerve damage affecting voice, and parathyroid gland damage requiring lifelong calcium supplements.