Definition

Painless (silent) thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland characterized by passing hyperthyroidism, followed by hypothyroidism and recovery.

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Alternative Names

Lymphocytic thyroiditis; Subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause of this type of thyroiditis is unknown. The disease affects women more often than men and usually develops in people between age 13 and 80. The symptoms are those of hyperthyroidism (overactivity of the thyroid gland), and may last for 3 months or less.

Symptoms

Symptoms in painless thyroiditis are usually mild. Most symptoms are due to hyperthyroidism and may include:

Signs and tests

A physical examination reveals an enlarged thyroid gland. The pulse (heart rate) may be rapid and the hands may shake.

  • Radioactive iodine uptake is decreased.
  • Serum T3 and T4 are elevated.
  • A thyroid biopsy shows invasion of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cells) into the gland. 

Treatment

Treatment is based on symptoms. Beta-blockers (Propranolol and others) relieve rapid heart rate and excessive sweating. Generally, painless thyroiditis will resolve on its own in time.

Expectations (prognosis)

The disease is usually resolved within 1 year, with the acute phase ending in 3 months. Some people may develop hypothyroidism over time, so regular follow-up is recommended.

Complications

  • hypothyroidism

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop.

If you have had this disease, regular follow-up is recommended to watch for the development of hypothyroidism.

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Review Date:1/18/2006
Reviewed By: Nikheel S. Kolatkar, MD, Clinical and Research Fellow, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.