Description
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
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
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.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Thyroid function tests, Thyroid nuclear scan, Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Other Specific Tests: Thyroid antibodies, thyroid biopsy
Specialists:
Endocrinology, Pediatric Endocrinology
Workup:
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.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Thyroid function tests, Thyroid nuclear scan, Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Other Specific Tests: Thyroid antibodies, thyroid biopsy
Specialists:
Endocrinology, Pediatric Endocrinology
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on symptoms, and the underlying cause and stage of thyroiditis.