thyroïditis

Thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the neck responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. This inflammation can affect thyroid hormone production, leading to either hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), or it can cause a transient period of normal thyroid function.

There are several types of thyroiditis, each with distinct causes and clinical presentations. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common form and is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland. This typically leads to gradual destruction of thyroid tissue and chronic hypothyroidism. Subacute thyroiditis, often following a viral infection, is characterized by a painful enlargement of the thyroid and a transient phase of hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism, usually with eventual recovery. Postpartum thyroiditis is a temporary condition that can occur in women after childbirth and is also thought to be autoimmune in nature. Reidel's thyroiditis is a rare, chronic inflammatory condition that causes the thyroid to become very hard and woody, often mistaken for cancer.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of thyroiditis and whether thyroid hormone levels are elevated or decreased. General symptoms of thyroid dysfunction include fatigue, weight changes, mood disturbances, temperature intolerance, and changes in heart rate. Pain in the neck and throat can be present in some forms, particularly subacute thyroiditis. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4) and thyroid antibodies, as well as imaging techniques like ultrasound and sometimes a radioactive iodine uptake scan. Treatment depends on the specific type of thyroiditis and the resulting thyroid function, and may involve thyroid hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism or medications to manage hyperthyroid symptoms.