De Quervain's thyroiditis (patient information)
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De Quervain's thyroiditis |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
De Quervain's thyroiditis is also called subacute thyroiditis. The most obvious symptom of subacute thyroiditis is pain in the neck caused by a swollen and inflamed thyroid gland. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, fatigue, feeling weak, fever, more frequent bowel movements, hair loss, heat intolerance, irregular menstrual periods in women, mood changes, nervousness, tremor, palpitations, and sweating. As the thyroid gland heals, it may release too little hormone, causing symptoms of hypothyroidism, including cold intolerance, constipation, fatigue, weight gain, dry skin and mood changes. Thyroid gland function often returns to normal. But in rare cases, hypothyroidism may be permanent. De Quervain's thyroiditis is thought to be caused by the viral infections. The risk factors of de Quervain's thyroiditis include viral infections, female gender, and a positive family history. Laboratory tests that may be done include thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level, T4 (thyroid hormone, thyroxine), T3, and radioactive iodine uptake. The mainstay of treatment is aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The complications of de Quervain's thyroiditis include hypothyroidism and tracheal compression.
What are the symptoms of De Quervain's thyroiditis?
The most obvious symptom of subacute thyroiditis is a pain in the neck caused by a swollen and inflamed thyroid gland. Sometimes, the pain can spread (radiate) to the jaw or ears. The thyroid gland may be painful and swollen for weeks or, in rare cases, months.[1]
Other symptoms include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- hoarseness
- Fatigue (feeling weak)
- Fever
The inflamed thyroid gland may release too much thyroid hormone, causing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including:
- More frequent bowel movements
- Hair loss
- Heat intolerance
- Irregular menstrual periods in women
- Mood changes
- Nervousness
- Tremor
- Palpitations
- Sweating
- Weight loss but increased appetite
As the thyroid gland heals, it may release too little hormone, causing symptoms of hypothyroidism, including:
- Cold intolerance
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Dry skin
- Mood changes
Thyroid gland function often returns to normal. But in rare cases, hypothyroidism may be permanent.
What causes De Quervain's thyroiditis?
De Quervain's thyroiditis is thought to be caused by the viral infections. Genetic factors also predispose the individual to de Quervain's thyroiditis.
Who is at highest risk?
The risk factors of de Quervain's thyroiditis include viral infections, female gender, and a positive family history.
Diagnosis
Laboratory tests that may be done include:
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level
- T4 (thyroid hormone, thyroxine) and T3 level
- Radioactive iodine uptake
- Thyroglobulin level
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
- In some cases, a thyroid biopsy may be done
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of subacute thyroiditis.
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for De Quervain's thyroiditis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating De Quervain's thyroiditis
Prevention of De Quervain's thyroiditis
There is no known way to prevent this disorder. Being aware of risk factors may allow earlier diagnosis and treatment.
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
The outcome is usually very good. The disease subsides in few months. If it does slowly progress to thyroid hormone deficiency (hypothyroidism), it can be treated with thyroid replacement therapy.
Possible Complications
The complications of de Quervain's thyroiditis include:
- Hypothyroidism
- Tracheal compression
- Esophageal compression