Hashimoto thyroiditis

Question 1

What is Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 1

Autoimmune destruction of thyroid gland

Characterized by the immune system attacking the thyroid tissue leading to hypothyroidism.

Question 2

Biopsy in Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 2

Lymphocytic infiltrate

This is a key histological finding that can help in the diagnosis.

Question 3

Which antibodies are associated with Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 3

• Anti-microsomal (anti-thyroperoxidase)
• Anti-thyroglobulin

These antibodies are important markers for the disease.

Question 4

What are the levels of T3, T4, and TSH in Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 4

Decreased T3, decreased T4, increased TSH

These levels indicate hypothyroidism.

Question 5

What does a 131I uptake scan show in Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 5

Decreased or patchy uptake

Indicates that the thyroid gland is not producing hormone effectively.

Question 6

What are common symptoms of Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 6

• Weight gain
• Brittle hair
• Dry/doughy skin
• Cold intolerance

These symptoms are associated with hypothyroidism.

Question 7

What are additional findings that may appear in Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 7

• Bradycardia (55-60)
• Menstrual irregularity
• Dysthymia/depression/apathy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome (due to GAG deposition)
• Increased cholesterol
• Proximal muscle weakness with increased creatine kinase (hypothyroid myopathy)
• Transaminitis

These findings can help in the comprehensive understanding of the condition.

Question 8

What is the big-picture concept regarding autoimmune diseases?

Answer 8

Autoimmune diseases go together

If a patient has one autoimmune disease, there is a risk of having others.

Question 9

What is the relationship between autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiencies?

Answer 9

Autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiencies go together

This means that having one can increase the risk of the other.

Question 10

What is the increased risk associated with Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 10

Increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Can include primary CNS lymphoma, which is a notable complication.

Question 11

What is the treatment for Hashimoto Thyroiditis?

Answer 11

Levothyroxine or triiodothyronine

These medications help to replace the deficient thyroid hormones.