“Hyper-Thyroiditis” — A Diagnostic Pitfall

Abstract

Subacute thyroiditis is an acute, subacute or chronic, generalized, self-limiting, nonbacterial, inflammation of the thyroid. Characteristic histologic findings include giant cells, granulomas and pseudotubercles. Characteristically, the thyroid gland is enlarged, painful and tender. The local pain may radiate to the jaw or ear, and there may be systemic manifestations of fever, malaise, and aches in muscles and joints. In at least 50 per cent of cases a hypermetabolic state suggestive of thyrotoxicosis is present, and measurement of circulating thyroid hormones will often demonstrate increased levels of thyroxine and tri-iodothyronine. However, unlike classic thyrotoxicosis, the radioactive iodine (¹³¹I) uptake is . . .