John and Radha were classmates since childhood. When Radha became eleven years old, she developed a little swelling on 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 diagnosis?
Answer:
The swelling on the neck of Radha may have been because of goiter, a condition of the thyroid gland during which the gland produces insufficient quantity of thyroxine. However, the protrusion in John’s throat would be Adam’s apple, a result of growth of voice box in adolescent boys.