 Health Guide Drug Guide Images Chronic thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s disease)DefinitionChronic thyroiditis is swelling (inflammation) of the thyroid gland that often results in reduced thyroid function (hypothyroidism). Alternative NamesHashimoto's thyroiditis; Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis; Autoimmune thyroiditis CausesChronic thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease is a common thyroid gland disorder. It can occur at any age, but is most often seen in middle-aged women. It is caused by a reaction of the immune system against the thyroid gland. The disease begins slowly. It may take months or even years for the condition to be detected. Chronic thyroiditis is most common in women and people with a family history of thyroid disease. It affects between 0.1% and 5% of all adults in Western countries. Hashimoto's disease may, in rare cases, be associated with other endocrine disorders caused by the immune system. Hashimoto's disease can occur with adrenal insufficiency and type 1 diabetes. In these cases, the condition is called type 2 polyglandular autoimmune syndrome (PGA II). Less commonly, Hashimoto's disease occurs as part of a condition called type 1 polyglandular autoimmune syndrome (PGA I), along with:
Symptoms
Other symptoms that can occur with this disease:
Note: There may be no symptoms. Exams and TestsLaboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:
Imaging studies are generally not needed to diagnose Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This disease may also change the results of the following tests:
TreatmentA lack of thyroid hormone may develop. You may receive thyroid hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine) if your body is not producing enough of the hormone. Or, you may receive it if you have signs of mild thyroid failure (such as elevated TSH). This condition is also known as subclinical hypothyroidism. If there is no evidence of thyroid hormone deficiency, you may just need regular observation by a health care provider. Outlook (Prognosis)The outcome is usually very good. The disease stays stable for years. If it does slowly progress to thyroid hormone deficiency (hypothyroidism), it can be treated with thyroid replacement therapy. Possible ComplicationsThis condition can occur with other autoimmune disorders. In rare cases, thyroid cancer may develop. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if you develop symptoms of chronic thyroiditis. PreventionThere is no known way to prevent this disorder. Being aware of risk factors may allow earlier diagnosis and treatment. ReferencesLadenson P, Kim M. Thyroid. In: Goldman L and Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2007:chap 244.
Review Date:
6/17/2008 Reviewed By: Elizabeth H. Holt, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Yale University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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