Hashimoto thyroiditis

Hashimoto thyroiditis (pronunciation: hah-shee-MOH-toh thy-roi-DY-tis), also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease in which the thyroid gland is gradually destroyed. It is named after the Japanese physician Hakaru Hashimoto who first described it in 1912.

Etymology

The term "Hashimoto thyroiditis" is derived from the name of its discoverer, Dr. Hakaru Hashimoto. The suffix "-itis" is from the Greek "-itis", used in medical terminology to denote inflammation.

Definition

Hashimoto thyroiditis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. This inflammation results in the gradual destruction of the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid does not produce enough hormones for the body's needs.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Hashimoto thyroiditis may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, joint and muscle pain, constipation, dry skin, thinning hair, decreased sweating, heavy or irregular menstrual periods, depression, and a slowed heart rate.

Causes

The exact cause of Hashimoto thyroiditis is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is an autoimmune disorder, which means that the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. In the case of Hashimoto thyroiditis, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Hashimoto thyroiditis is typically based on symptoms, physical examination, and blood tests to measure levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and anti-thyroid antibodies.

Treatment

Treatment for Hashimoto thyroiditis typically involves replacing the hormone that the thyroid gland is not producing in sufficient amounts. This is usually done with a daily oral medication.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Hashimoto thyroiditis
Wikipedia's article - Hashimoto thyroiditis

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Hashimoto thyroiditis