Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis When to observe, to treat or to refer
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disease, mainly
affecting women. The aetiology of HT is believed to involve genetic
and envi ronmenta l fac tors. Presentations of HT range from
incidental detection of antithyroid antibodies, clinical euthyroidism
with goitre to subclinical or overt hypothyroidism. Diagnosis of HT
relies on a combination of clinical and biochemical parameters.
Levothyroxine is the mainstay of treatment. Patients with disease that
is difficult to diagnose or manage should be referred for specialist
opinion.
Modern Medicine – November 2017
