Hashimoto's thyroiditis overview
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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
Hashimoto's thyroiditis or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease where the body's own antibodies attack the cells of the thyroid.
Historical Perspective
Hashimoto's thyroiditis was first described by Hashimoto Hakaru in 1912. He named it struma lymphomatosa which was renamed as Hashimoto's thyroiditis in 1931.
Classification
Pathophysiology
Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is characterized by Lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland and production of antibodies that recognize thyroid-specific antigens.The pathogenesis is not yet completely understood. It is currently thought that the disease is caused by abnormalities in cellular and humoral immunity which results in a localized cell-mediated immune response directed toward the thyroid parenchymal cells. This results in the decreased production of thyroid hormones.
Causes
Differentiating Hashimoto's Thyroiditis from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
CT
MRI
Echocardiography or Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
The mainstay of therapy for Hashimoto's thyroiditis is synthetic levothyroxine. Corticosteroids and selenium can also be used in certain cases.
Surgery
Thyroidectomy is usually performed when the enlarged thyroid produces cervical compression symptoms and there is a high suspicion for malignancy.
Primary Prevention
There are no primary preventive measures available for Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Secondary Prevention
There are no secondary preventive measures available for Hashimoto's thyroiditis.