De Quervain's thyroiditis

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De Quervain's Thyroiditis

De Quervain's thyroiditis, also known as subacute granulomatous thyroiditis or giant cell thyroiditis, is a rare form of thyroiditis characterized by painful inflammation of the thyroid gland. Pronounced as deh-kwer-vanz thy-roi-dai-tis, it is named after the Swiss surgeon Fritz de Quervain who first described the condition.

Etymology

The term "De Quervain's thyroiditis" is derived from the name of Swiss surgeon Fritz de Quervain, who first identified the condition in 1904. The term "thyroiditis" is derived from the Greek words "thyreos" (shield) and "-itis" (inflammation), referring to the inflammation of the shield-shaped thyroid gland.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of De Quervain's thyroiditis is pain in the front of the neck, which may radiate towards the ears. Other symptoms may include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and an enlarged and tender thyroid gland. Some patients may also experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism as the condition progresses.

Causes

The exact cause of De Quervain's thyroiditis is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a viral infection or an immune response following a viral infection. It is more common in women than in men and typically affects middle-aged adults.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of De Quervain's thyroiditis is typically based on the patient's symptoms, a physical examination, and laboratory tests. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound or a radioactive iodine uptake test may also be used.

Treatment

Treatment for De Quervain's thyroiditis primarily involves managing the symptoms. This may include pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and beta blockers. In some cases, corticosteroids may be used. Most patients recover fully within a few months, but some may develop permanent hypothyroidism.

See also

External links

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