endocrine and metabolic disorders
Hashimoto Thyroiditis
Introduction
Hashimoto thyroiditis is chronic autoimmune inflammation of the thyroid with lymphocytic infiltration. Findings include painless thyroid enlargement and symptoms of hypothyroidism. Diagnosis involves demonstration of high titers of thyroid peroxidase antibodies. Lifelonglevothyroxinereplacement is typically required for patients who develop hypothyroidism. (See also Overview of Thyroid Function .) Hashimoto thyroiditis is believed to be the most common cause of primary Hypothyroidism in North America. It is several times more prevalent among women. Incidence increases with age and in patients with chromosomal disorders, including Hashimoto thyroiditis, like Etiology , is sometimes associated with other autoimmune disorders, including 