ABSTRACT
The term autonomously functioning thyroid nodule (AFTN) describes the clinical presentation of thyroid autonomy-a condition characterized by production of thyroid hormones independently from thyrotropin (TSH) stimulation and in the absence of TSH receptor (TSHr) stimulating antibodies. The AFTN can be single in the context of the thyroid or can coexist with other functioning and non-functioning nodules (in the latter case, see Chapter 19 describing toxic multinodular goiter).
