Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Overview

• Also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or autoimmune thyroiditis.
• Autoimmune disorder causing antibodies to damage the thyroid gland.
• Leads to inflammation and potential enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter).
• Most common cause of hypothyroidism in the U.S.
• More prevalent in women, can affect men and all age groups.

Thyroid Gland Function

• Butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of the neck.
• Produces thyroid hormones critical for energy usage, warmth, and organ function.
• Essential for normal growth in children.

Symptoms of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

• Often slow progression, symptoms may not be present early.
• Possible enlargement of the thyroid causing neck discomfort and swallowing difficulties.
• Underactive thyroid may lead to low thyroid hormone levels.
• Symptoms associated with hypothyroidism:
  • Fatigue
  • Abnormal weight gain
  • Constipation
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Dry skin
  • Depression
  • Muscle aches
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Slower growth in children

Diagnosis

• Symptoms of hypothyroidism and blood tests indicating:
  • Elevated TSH level
  • Low free T4 or total T4 levels
  • High thyroid antibody levels
• Goiter presence
• Ultrasound may show early inflammation signs.
• Monitoring of TSH levels necessary.

Treatment

• No treatment if high antibody levels but normal thyroid function.
• Possible medication for mild/subclinical hypothyroidism.
• Regular TSH level checks for clinical hypothyroidism development.
• Clinical hypothyroidism treated with levothyroxine:
  • Correct dose has no side effects.
  • Underdosing leads to persistent hypothyroidism symptoms.
  • Overdosing may cause hyperthyroidism symptoms.
• Lifelong treatment often required for hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Further Information

• More resources and patient support links available at thyroid.org.