Thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation)
About Thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation)
Inflammation of the thyroid gland. The inflamed gland can release an excessive amount of thyroid hormone (hyperthyroid), the correct amount, or too little (hypothyroid) depending on the cause and the stage of the disease. Many people with thyroiditis have permanent damage to the thyroid gland causing hypothyroidism that requires thyroid replacement for life. The types of thyroiditis include: Hashimoto's thyroiditis, subacute granulomatous thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis, subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis, and drug-induced thyroiditis.Symptoms
Symptoms can vary greatly depending on the cause and the stage of the disease. The thyroid gland in the front part of the neck can be painless or painful.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests are done to determine thyroid function and thyroid antibody tests are often done as well. Thyroid imaging with a thyroid scan may be performed.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Thyroid function test, thyroid scan, Thyroid stimulating hormaone.
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment varies depending on symptoms, and the underlying cause and stage of thyroiditis.Medical specialties
Endocrinology · Pediatric Endocrinology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation).