Hashimoto's encephalopathy
(Redirected from Hashimoto's encephalitis)
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]
Synonyms and keywords: steroid-responsive encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroiditis, SREAT
Overview
Hashimoto's Encephalopathy is a very rare condition associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Hashimoto's Encephalopathy is a neuroendocrine disorder. Much like the antibodies in Hashimoto's thyroiditis attack the thyroid, in Hashimoto's encephalopathy, antibodies attack neurons of the brain.
Differentiating Hashimoto's encephalopathy from other disease
- Alzheimer's disease- seen in old age and dementia is the most prominent symptom
Pathophysiology
A few theories are proposed for Hashimoto encephalopathy.
- Neuronal injury due to antibody mediated destruction.
- Immmune complex mediated vasculitis
- Toxic effect of increased thyroid stimulating hormone.
Diagnosis
Symptoms
- Concentration and memory problems
Physical examination
- Jerks in the muscles
- Lack of coordination
- Partial paralysis
- Speech problems
Laboratory Findings
Blood and Biomarker Studies
- Anti thyroid peroxidase levels
- CSF analysis - increased protein concentration, lymphocytic pleocytosis
Electroencephalogram
- Generalized slowing of activity
CT and MRI
- Non specific and show normal results
- In few patients atrophy may be seen
Treatment
Steroids or immunosuppressant treatment, this condition is now also referred to as "steroid-responsive" encephalopathy.