Thyroiditis

Exam Cram

• Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid, caused particularly by: subacute (post viral infection) thyroiditis and post partum thyroiditis

• Presentation: three transient stages: hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism & euthyroid

• Diagnosis: clinical- investigations: globally reduced uptake on iodine scan

• Management: NSAIDs

SubAcute Thyroiditis

Background

• Previously called DeQuervain's thyroiditis

Assessment

History

• Proceeding viral illness

• Hyperthyroidism: anxiety then

• Hypothyroidism

Examination

• Hyperthyroidism: tremor

• Mildly tender thyroid

Investigations

• Hyperthyroid -> hypothyroid

• Thyroid isotope scan: globally reduced uptake

Diagnosis & Classification

Diagnosis: clinical

Management

• Supportive e.g. NSAIDs

Med Reg Notes

• Severe cases can be treated with prednisolone until T4 normalises

Post Partum Thyroiditis

• BHCG causes a mild hyperthyroidism

• Pregnancy can cause a transient rise and fall of thyroid function

• Hyperthyroidism can last up to 4 months post partum

• Hypothyroidism stage usually self resolves

• 1/3 develop long term hypothyroidism requiring replacement

References and Resources

Written in 2025