Subacute Thyroiditis (de Quervain)

Subacute thyroiditis (de Quervain thyroiditis) is a self-limited post-viral granulomatous thyroiditis. Clinical course: preceding URI, painful tender enlarged thyroid, transient thyrotoxic phase (released hormone), then hypothyroid phase, usually full recovery in weeks-months. Labs: elevated ESR, low radioiodine uptake during thyrotoxic phase.

Common Symptoms

Painful tender goiter; fever; preceding URI; neck pain radiating to jaw/ear; transient thyrotoxic symptoms; elevated ESR

Causes and Pathogenesis

Viral/post-viral inflammatory destruction of thyroid follicles releases preformed hormone; granulomatous inflammation with giant cells.

Treatment

NSAIDs; short course of corticosteroids for severe; beta-blockers for thyrotoxic symptoms; L-thyroxine transiently for hypothyroid phase

Preventive Measures

Self-limited; follow thyroid function; rarely recurrent.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Endocrinology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.