Silent thyroiditis
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Synonyms and keywords: Painless thyroiditis; Subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis.
Overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis, is also known as subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis is a type of resolving thyroiditis, which also includes postpartum thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis was first described as the painless form of the subacute thyroiditis as the clinical course is same. It was differentiated from postpartum thyroiditis on the basis of thyroid involvement outside of the postpartum period. The exact pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis is not fully understood. It is thought that silent thyroiditis is the result of an autoimmune phenomenon. Activated matured T-cells (HLA-DR+CD3+), activated helper/inducer T-cells (HLA-DR+CD4+), activated suppressor, and cytotoxic T-cells (HLA-DR+CD8+) were higher in patients with silent thyroiditis as compared to the healthy controls. It indicates that the activation of T cells, especially of helper/inducer T cells, might have an important role in the pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis is associated with the HLA-DR3 and DR5 genes. Lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland, the absence of Hurthle cells and germinal centers on histological analysis are the microscopic histopathological findings suggestive of silent thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis may be caused by the activation of helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells, genetic factors, and autoimmune antibodies. Silent thyroiditis is a rare disease with the incidence of up to 23000 per 100,000 individuals with hyperthyroidism. The prevalence of silent thyroiditis is approximately 1000 per 100,000 individuals with thyrotoxicosis. Silent thyroiditis commonly affects patients in 30-40 years of age. Females are more commonly affected by silent thyroiditis than males. The female to male ratio is approximately 4 to 1. Silent thyroiditis is more common in areas of higher dietary iodine intake. Common risk factors in the development of silent thyroiditis include lithium, radiation therapy in Hodgkin’s lymphoma, cessation of corticosteroids in Cushing’s syndrome (post adrenalectomy), and certain autoimmune conditions. Silent thyroiditis presents with the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. It further leads to a euthyroid phase and eventually hypothyroid phase before the complete resolution of the disease. Complications may include hypothyroidism. There are no established criteria for the diagnosis of silent thyroiditis. Decreased radioactive iodine uptake, elevated serum T3, and T4 are helpful in diagnosing silent thyroiditis. Histopathology is also important to differentiate silent thyroiditis from other forms of thyroiditis. Patients with silent thyroiditis usually appear fatigued and restless. Patients with silent thyroiditis may have the history of other autoimmune diseases such as SLE, immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), and lymphocytic hypophysitis. The most common symptoms of silent thyroiditis are palpitations, tachycardia, nervousness, and tremors. Physical examination of patients with silent thyroiditis is usually remarkable for tachycardia and palpitations. In the recovery phase of silent thyroiditis, the patient may show signs of hypothyroidism. Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of silent thyroiditis usually include increased free T3, free T4, decreased thyroid stimulating hormone in thyrotoxicosis and decreased free T3, free T4, increased thyroid stimulating hormone in hypothyroidism. Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody is usually high. The most common EKG finding associated with the thyrotoxicosis in silent thyroiditis is sinus tachycardia. Rarely signs of myocardial damage, including ST segment elevation and arrhythmias, can also be seen in thyrotoxicosis. MRI is not used in the diagnosis of silent thyroiditis. However, diffusion-weighted MRI shows low apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). 24-hour iodine-123 uptake is decreased in silent thyroiditis. The histological analysis in silent thyroiditis may show the infiltration of inflammatory cells, lymphoid follicles, and loss of the follicular integrity. Fine needle aspiration cytology helps to differentiate between the benign and malignant nodules. Pharmacologic medical therapies for silent thyroiditis include beta blockers for thyrotoxicosis symptoms and levothyroxine for the hypothyroidism if it follows the hyperthyroid state. Surgical intervention is not usually recommended for the management of silent thyroiditis.Thyroidectomy is considered only when there are repeated relapses despite appropriate treatment.
Historical Perspective
Silent thyroiditis was identified as a separate form of thyroiditis a few decades ago. Silent thyroiditis was first described as the painless form of the subacute thyroiditis as the clinical course is same. It was differentiated from postpartum thyroiditis on the basis of thyroid involvement outside of the postpartum period.
Classification
Silent thyroiditis can be classified according to the development of symptoms into the hyperthyroid stage, euthyroid stage, and hypothyroid stage.
Pathophysiology
The exact pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis is not fully understood. It is thought that silent thyroiditis is the result of an autoimmune phenomenon. Activated matured T-cells (HLA-DR+CD3+), activated helper/inducer T-cells (HLA-DR+CD4+), activated suppressor, and cytotoxic T-cells (HLA-DR+CD8+) were higher in patients with silent thyroiditis as compared to the healthy controls. It indicates that the activation of T cells, especially of helper/inducer T cells, might have an important role in the pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis is associated with the HLA-DR3 and DR5 genes. Lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland, the absence of Hurthle cells and germinal centers on histological analysis are the microscopic histopathological findings suggestive of silent thyroiditis.
Causes
Silent thyroiditis may be caused by the activation of helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells, genetic factors, and autoimmune antibodies.
Differentiating Silent thyroiditis from Other Diseases
Silent thyroiditis must be differentiated from other causes of thyroiditis, such as De Quervain’s thyroiditis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Riedel’s thyroiditis, and suppurative thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis must also be differentiated from other diseases which cause hypothyroidism. As silent thyroiditis may cause transient thyrotoxic symptoms, the diseases causing thyrotoxicosis must also be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Silent thyroiditis is a rare disease with the incidence of up to 23000 per 100,000 individuals with hyperthyroidism. The prevalence of silent thyroiditis is approximately 1000 per 100,000 individuals with thyrotoxicosis. Silent thyroiditis commonly affects patients in 30-40 years of age. Females are more commonly affected by silent thyroiditis than males. The female to male ratio is approximately 4 to 1. Silent thyroiditis is more common in areas of higher dietary iodine intake.
Risk Factors
Common risk factors in the development of silent thyroiditis include lithium, radiation therapy in Hodgkin’s lymphoma, cessation of corticosteroids in Cushing’s syndrome (post adrenalectomy), and certain autoimmune conditions.
Screening
There is insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening for silent thyroiditis.
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Silent thyroiditis presents with the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. It further leads to a euthyroid phase and eventually hypothyroid phase before the complete resolution of the disease. Complications may include hypothyroidism.
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Criteria
There are no established criteria for the diagnosis of silent thyroiditis. Decreased radioactive iodine uptake, elevated serum T3, and T4 are helpful in diagnosing silent thyroiditis. Histopathology is also important to differentiate silent thyroiditis from other forms of thyroiditis.
History and Symptoms
Patients with silent thyroiditis may have the history of other autoimmune diseases such as SLE, immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), and lymphocytic hypophysitis. The most common symptoms of silent thyroiditis are palpitations, tachycardia, nervousness, and tremors.
Physical Examination
Patients with silent thyroiditis usually appear fatigued and restless. Physical examination of patients with silent thyroiditis is usually remarkable for tachycardia and palpitations. In the recovery phase of silent thyroiditis, the patient may show signs of hypothyroidism.
Laboratory Findings
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of silent thyroiditis usually include increased free T3, free T4, decreased thyroid stimulating hormone in thyrotoxicosis and decreased free T3, free T4, increased thyroid stimulating hormone in hypothyroidism. Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody is usually high.
Electrocardiogram
The most common EKG finding associated with the thyrotoxicosis in silent thyroiditis is sinus tachycardia. Rarely signs of myocardial damage, including ST segment elevation and arrhythmias, can also be seen in thyrotoxicosis.
X-ray
There are no x-ray findings associated with silent thyroiditis.
Ultrasound
There are no echocardiograms associated with silent thyroiditis. Ultrasound findings associated with silent thyroiditis are hypoechoic areas, glandular irregularities, and nonhomogeneous echotexture.
CT scan
There are no CT scan findings associated with silent thyroiditis.
MRI
MRI is not used in the diagnosis of silent thyroiditis. However, diffusion-weighted MRI shows low apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC).
Other Imaging Findings
24-hour iodine-123 uptake is decreased in silent thyroiditis.
Other Diagnostic Studies
The histological analysis in silent thyroiditis may show the infiltration of inflammatory cells, lymphoid follicles, and loss of the follicular integrity. Fine needle aspiration cytology helps to differentiate between the benign and malignant nodules.
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Pharmacologic medical therapies for silent thyroiditis include beta blockers for thyrotoxicosis symptoms and levothyroxine for the hypothyroidism if it follows the hyperthyroid state.
Surgery
Surgical intervention is not usually recommended for the management of silent thyroiditis.Thyroidectomy is considered only when there are repeated relapses despite appropriate treatment.
Primary Prevention
There are no established measures for the primary prevention of silent thyroiditis.
Secondary Prevention
There are no established measures for the secondary prevention of silent thyroiditis.
References
Historical Perspective
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis was described as a separate form of thyroiditis a few decades ago. Silent thyroiditis was primarily known as the painless form of the subacute thyroiditis as clinical course is the same. It was differentiated from postpartum thyroiditis on the basis of thyroid involvement outside of the postpartum period.
Historical perspective
Silent thyroiditis was primarily known as the painless form of the subacute thyroiditis as clinical course is the same. It was differentiated from postpartum thyroiditis on the basis of thyroid involvement outside of the postpartum period. In 1975, the detailed description of thyrotoxicosis caused by silent thyroiditis was published.[1][2][3]
- In 1975, Papapetrou PD and Jackson IM first described the thyrotoxicosis caused by the silent thyroiditis.
- Postpartum thyroiditis is indistinguishable from silent thyroiditis. The sporadic nature of silent thyroiditis explains the involvement of thyroiditis outside of the postpartum period.
- Silent thyroiditis is also identical to the lymphocytic thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) on biopsy but was differentiated on the basis of less extensive thyroid involvement.
References
- ↑ Werner, Sidney (2005). Werner & Ingbar’s the thyroid : a fundamental and clinical text. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. ISBN 9780781750479.
- ↑ “Thyroiditis — NEJM”.
- ↑ Papapetrou PD, Jackson IM (1975). “Thyrotoxicosis due to “silent” thyroiditis”. Lancet. 1 (7903): 361–3. PMID 46512.
Classification
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis can be classified according to the development of symptoms into the hyperthyroid stage, euthyroid stage, and hypothyroid stage.
Classification
Silent thyroiditis can be classified according to the development of symptoms into the following stages:[1][2]
- Hyperthyroid stage
- It includes the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis.
- Euthyroid stage
- Thyroid hormones are within the normal range and there are no specific symptoms.
- Hypothyroid stage
- Thyroid hormones are decreased as a result of glandular damage.
References
- ↑ Kushima K, Ban Y, Taniyama M, Itoh K (1994). “Circulating activated T lymphocyte subsets in patients with silent thyroiditis”. Endocr. J. 41 (6): 663–9. PMID 7704090.
- ↑ Samuels MH (2012). “Subacute, silent, and postpartum thyroiditis”. Med. Clin. North Am. 96 (2): 223–33. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2012.01.003. PMID 22443972.
Pathophysiology
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
The exact pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis is not fully understood. It is thought that silent thyroiditis is the result of an autoimmune phenomenon. Activated matured T-cells (HLA-DR+CD3+), activated helper/inducer T-cells (HLA-DR+CD4+), activated suppressor, and cytotoxic T-cells (HLA-DR+CD8+) were higher in patients with silent thyroiditis as compared to the healthy controls. It indicates that the activation of T cells, especially helper/inducer T cells, might have an important role in the pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis is associated with the HLA-DR3 and DR5 genes. Lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland, the absence of Hurthle cells and germinal centers on histological analysis are the microscopic histopathological findings suggestive of silent thyroiditis.
Pathophysiology
The control, synthesis, and release of the thyroid hormone is usually controlled by hypothalamus and pituitary gland.[1][2]
|
![]() |
Pathogenesis
- The exact pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis is not fully understood. It is thought that silent thyroiditis is the result of an autoimmune phenomenon. The following features are suggestive of an autoimmune pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis:[3][4][5][6]
- Lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland
- Presence of antithyroid antibodies
- Association with HLA-DR3 and DR5
- Presence of anti-DNA antibodies
- Activated matured T-cells (HLA-DR+CD3+), activated helper/inducer T-cells (HLA-DR+CD4+), activated suppressor, and cytotoxic T-cells (HLA-DR+CD8+) were higher in patients with silent thyroiditis as compared to the healthy controls. It indicates that the activation of T-cells, especially of helper/inducer T cells, might have an important role in the pathogenesis of silent thyroiditis.[7]
Genetics
Silent thyroiditis is associated with the following HLA genes:[5]
Associated Conditions
The following conditions are associated with silent thyroiditis:[8][9][10][11]
- SLE
- Lymphocytic hypophysitis
- Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
- Cushing’s syndrome (post adrenalectomy and steroid therapy cessation)
- Hodgkin’s lymphoma (post-irradiation)
Gross Pathology
Gross pathology findings in silent thyroiditis include:[12]
- Diffuse goiter
- Slightly enlarged thyroid gland
Microscopic Pathology
- Microscopic histopathological findings in silent thyroiditis include:[3][13]
- Diffuse lymphocytic infiltrate
- Lack of Hurthle cells (Askanazy cells) and germinal centers
- Lack of fibrosis
References
- ↑ De Groot LJ, Chrousos G, Dungan K, Feingold KR, Grossman A, Hershman JM, Koch C, Korbonits M, McLachlan R, New M, Purnell J, Rebar R, Singer F, Vinik A, Rousset B, Dupuy C, Miot F, Dumont J. “Thyroid Hormone Synthesis And Secretion”. PMID 25905405.
- ↑ Kirsten D (2000). “The thyroid gland: physiology and pathophysiology”. Neonatal Netw. 19 (8): 11–26. doi:10.1891/0730-0832.19.8.11. PMID 11949270.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Volpé R (1988). “Is silent thyroiditis an autoimmune disease?”. Arch. Intern. Med. 148 (9): 1907–8. PMID 3415401.
- ↑ Samuels MH (2012). “Subacute, silent, and postpartum thyroiditis”. Med. Clin. North Am. 96 (2): 223–33. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2012.01.003. PMID 22443972.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 Farid NR, Hawe BS, Walfish PG (1983). “Increased frequency of HLA-DR3 and 5 in the syndromes of painless thyroiditis with transient thyrotoxicosis: evidence for an autoimmune aetiology”. Clin. Endocrinol. (Oxf). 19 (6): 699–704. PMID 6606505.
- ↑ Tajiri J, Higashi K, Morita M, Ohishi S, Umeda T, Sato T (1986). “Elevation of anti-DNA antibody titer during thyrotoxic phase of silent thyroiditis”. Arch. Intern. Med. 146 (8): 1623–4. PMID 3488044.
- ↑ Kushima K, Ban Y, Taniyama M, Itoh K (1994). “Circulating activated T lymphocyte subsets in patients with silent thyroiditis”. Endocr. J. 41 (6): 663–9. PMID 7704090.
- ↑ Magaro M, Zoli A, Altomonte L, Mirone L, La Sala L, Barini A, Scuderi F (1992). “The association of silent thyroiditis with active systemic lupus erythematosus”. Clin. Exp. Rheumatol. 10 (1): 67–70. PMID 1551281.
- ↑ Ozawa Y, Shishiba Y (1993). “Recovery from lymphocytic hypophysitis associated with painless thyroiditis: clinical implications of circulating antipituitary antibodies”. Acta Endocrinol. 128 (6): 493–8. PMID 8393255.
- ↑ Nagai K, Sakata S, Takuno H, Tanabashi S, Kametani M, Tokimitsu N, Miura K (1988). “A case of silent thyroiditis associated with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura”. Endocrinol. Jpn. 35 (6): 791–4. PMID 3250857.
- ↑ Wilkins M, Moe MM (2001). “Acute painless thyroiditis with transient thyrotoxicosis during external beam irradiation to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma of the thyroid gland”. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol). 13 (4): 311. PMID 11554636.</ref<ref name=”pmid8484389″>Yamakita N, Sakata S, Hayashi H, Maekawa H, Miura K (1993). “Case report: silent thyroiditis after adrenalectomy in a patient with Cushing’s syndrome”. Am. J. Med. Sci. 305 (5): 304–6. PMID 8484389.
- ↑ “Pathology Outlines – Silent thyroiditis”.
- ↑ Mittra ES, McDougall IR (2007). “Recurrent silent thyroiditis: a report of four patients and review of the literature”. Thyroid. 17 (7): 671–5. doi:10.1089/thy.2006.0335. PMID 17696838.
Causes
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis may be caused by the activation of helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells, genetic factors, and autoimmune antibodies.
Causes
Silent thyroiditis is usually caused by:[1][2][3][4]
- Abnormalities in the regulatory T cells and cytotoxic T-cells
- HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR5 involvement
- Antithyroid antibodies
For the factors involved in the development of silent thyroiditis, please click here.
References
- ↑ Volpé R (1988). “Is silent thyroiditis an autoimmune disease?”. Arch. Intern. Med. 148 (9): 1907–8. PMID 3415401.
- ↑ Samuels MH (2012). “Subacute, silent, and postpartum thyroiditis”. Med. Clin. North Am. 96 (2): 223–33. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2012.01.003. PMID 22443972.
- ↑ Farid NR, Hawe BS, Walfish PG (1983). “Increased frequency of HLA-DR3 and 5 in the syndromes of painless thyroiditis with transient thyrotoxicosis: evidence for an autoimmune aetiology”. Clin. Endocrinol. (Oxf). 19 (6): 699–704. PMID 6606505.
- ↑ Tajiri J, Higashi K, Morita M, Ohishi S, Umeda T, Sato T (1986). “Elevation of anti-DNA antibody titer during thyrotoxic phase of silent thyroiditis”. Arch. Intern. Med. 146 (8): 1623–4. PMID 3488044.
Differentiating Silent thyroiditis from other Diseases

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis must be differentiated from other causes of thyroiditis, such as De Quervain’s thyroiditis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Riedel’s thyroiditis, and suppurative thyroiditis. Silent thyroiditis must also be differentiated from other diseases which cause hypothyroidism. As silent thyroiditis may cause transient thyrotoxic symptoms, the diseases causing thyrotoxicosis must also be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Differentiating Silent Thyroiditis from other Diseases
Differentiating silent thyroiditis from other causes of thyroiditis
- Silent thyroiditis must be differentiated from other causes of thyroiditis, such as De Quervain’s thyroiditis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Riedel’s thyroiditis, and suppurative thyroiditis.[1]
| Conditions | Causes | Age at onset | Pathological findings | Diagnostic approach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silent thyroiditis |
|
|
| |
| Hashimoto’s thyroiditis |
|
|
| |
| Painful subacute (De Quervain’s) thyroiditis |
|
|
|
|
| Postpartum thyroiditis |
|
|
| |
| Riedel’s thyroiditis |
|
|
|
|
| Suppurative thyroiditis |
|
|
|
Differentiating silent thyroiditis from other causes of hypothyroidism
- Silent thyroiditis must be differentiated from other causes of hypothyroidism on the basis of history and symptoms and laboratory findings:[2][3][1][4][5][6]
| Disease | History and symptoms | Laboratory findings | Additional findings | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fever | Pain | TSH | Free T4 | T3 | T3RU† | Thyroglobin | TRH | TPOAb^ | |||
| Transient hypothyroidism | Silent thyroiditis | – | – | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | ↑ | Normal | Present (high titer) |
|
| Postpartum thyroiditis | +/- | +/- | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | Present (high titer) |
| |
| Subacute (de Quervain’s) thyroiditis | +/- | +/- | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | ↑ | Normal | Low/absent |
| |
| Primary hypothyroidism | Autoimmune (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) | – | – | ↑* | ↓ | Normal/↓ | Normal/↓ | Normal/↑ | Normal | Present (high titer) |
|
| Riedel’s thyroiditis | – | – | Normal/↑ | Normal/↓ | Normal/↓ | Normal/↓ | Normal | Normal | Usually present |
| |
| Infectious thyroiditis | + | + | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Absent |
| |
| Others | Drug-induced | – | – | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | Normal/↑ | Normal | Absent** |
|
| Radiation-induced | |||||||||||
| Trauma induced | |||||||||||
| Radioiodine induced | |||||||||||
| Thyroidectomy | |||||||||||
| Subclinical hypothyroidism | – | – | ↑ | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal | Normal/↑ |
| |
Differentiating silent thyroiditis from other causes of thyrotoxicosis
- Silent thyroiditis can initially present with thyrotoxicosis which must be differentiated from other causes of thyrotoxicosis.[2][3][1][4][5][6][7][8][9]
| Disease | History and symptoms | Laboratory findings | Additional findings | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fever | Pain | TSH | Free T4 | T3 | T3RU† | Thyroglobin | TRH | TSH Receptor Antibody | TPOAb^ | |||
| Thyroiditis | Silent thyroiditis | – | – | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | ↑ | Normal | Absent | Present (high titer) |
|
| Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (Hashitoxicosis) | – | – | ↑* | ↓ | Normal/↓ | Normal/↓ | Normal/↑ | Normal | Absent | Present (high titer) |
| |
| Subacute (de Quervain’s) thyroiditis | +/- | +/- | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | ↑ | Normal | Absent | Low/absent |
| |
| Postpartum thyroiditis | +/- | +/- | ↑/↓ | ↓/↑ | Normal | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | Absent | Present (high titer) |
| |
| Primary hyperthyroidism | Grave’s disease | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↑ | ↑ | Normal | Present | Absent |
|
| Toxic thyroid nodule | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↑(hot nodule) | Normal/↑ | Normal | Absent | Absent |
– | |
| Secondary hyperthyroidism | Pituitary adenoma | – | – | ↑ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | Normal | Absent | Absent |
|
| Tertiary hyperthyroidism | Tertiary hyperthyroidism | – | – | ↑ | ↑ | ↑ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↑ | Absent | Absent |
|
| Drug induced | Amiodarone type 1 | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↓ | Normal/↑ | Normal | Absent | Absent |
|
| Amiodarone type 2 | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | Absent/↓ | Normal/↑ | Normal | Absent | Absent |
| |
| Others | Factitious thyrotoxicosis | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↓ | ↓ | Normal | Absent | Absent |
|
| Trophoblastic disease | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↑ | – | Normal | Absent | Absent |
– | |
| Struma ovarii | – | – | ↓ | ↑ | Normal/↑ | ↓ | – | Normal | Absent | Absent |
– | |
(†)T3RU; Triiodothyronine Resin uptake. (^)TPOAb; Thyroid peroxidase antibodies.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 “Thyroiditis — NEJM”.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Bindra A, Braunstein GD (2006). “Thyroiditis”. Am Fam Physician. 73 (10): 1769–76. PMID 16734054.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 McDermott MT (2009). “In the clinic. Hypothyroidism”. Ann. Intern. Med. 151 (11): ITC61. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-151-11-200912010-01006. PMID 19949140.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Aoki Y, Belin RM, Clickner R, Jeffries R, Phillips L, Mahaffey KR (2007). “Serum TSH and total T4 in the United States population and their association with participant characteristics: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 1999-2002)”. Thyroid. 17 (12): 1211–23. doi:10.1089/thy.2006.0235. PMID 18177256.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 Lania A, Persani L, Beck-Peccoz P (2008). “Central hypothyroidism”. Pituitary. 11 (2): 181–6. doi:10.1007/s11102-008-0122-6. PMID 18415684.
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 De Groot LJ, Chrousos G, Dungan K, Feingold KR, Grossman A, Hershman JM, Koch C, Korbonits M, McLachlan R, New M, Purnell J, Rebar R, Singer F, Vinik A, Stockigt J. “Clinical Strategies in the Testing of Thyroid Function”. PMID 25905413.
- ↑ “Clinical Finding and Thyroid Function in Women with Struma Ovarii”.
- ↑ Vaidya B, Pearce SH (2014). “Diagnosis and management of thyrotoxicosis”. BMJ. 349: g5128. PMID 25146390.
- ↑ “Think thyrotoxicosis factitia – measure thyroglobulin | The BMJ”.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis is a rare disease with the incidence of up to 23000 per 100,000 individuals with hyperthyroidism. The prevalence of silent thyroiditis is approximately 1000 per 100,000 individuals with thyrotoxicosis. Silent thyroiditis commonly affects patients in 30-40 years of age. Females are more commonly affected by silent thyroiditis than males. The female to male ratio is approximately 4 to 1. Silent thyroiditis is more common in areas of higher dietary iodine intake.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Incidence
The incidence of silent thyroiditis is up to 23000 per 100,000 individuals with hyperthyroidism.[1][2]
Prevalence
The prevalence of silent thyroiditis is approximately 1000 per 100,000 individuals with thyrotoxicosis.[3][4]
Age
Silent thyroiditis commonly affects patients in 30-40 years of age.[5]
Race
There is no racial predilection to silent thyroiditis.
Gender
Females are more commonly affected by silent thyroiditis than males. The female to male ratio is approximately 4 to 1.[4]
Region
Silent thyroiditis is more common in areas of higher dietary iodine intake. It is more common in the great lakes area of North America and Japan.[5][6]
References
- ↑ Nikolai TF, Brosseau J, Kettrick MA, Roberts R, Beltaos E (1980). “Lymphocytic thyroiditis with spontaneously resolving hyperthyroidism (silent thyroiditis)”. Arch. Intern. Med. 140 (4): 478–82. PMID 6892676.
- ↑ Schorr AB, Miller JL, Shtasel P, Rose LI (1986). “Low incidence of painless thyroiditis in the Philadelphia area”. Clin Nucl Med. 11 (6): 379–80. PMID 3720149.
- ↑ Ross DS (1998). “Syndromes of thyrotoxicosis with low radioactive iodine uptake”. Endocrinol. Metab. Clin. North Am. 27 (1): 169–85. PMID 9534035.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Pearce EN, Farwell AP, Braverman LE (2003). “Thyroiditis”. N. Engl. J. Med. 348 (26): 2646–55. doi:10.1056/NEJMra021194. PMID 12826640.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 Samuels MH (2012). “Subacute, silent, and postpartum thyroiditis”. Med. Clin. North Am. 96 (2): 223–33. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2012.01.003. PMID 22443972.
- ↑ Vitug AC, Goldman JM (1985). “Silent (painless) thyroiditis. Evidence of a geographic variation in frequency”. Arch. Intern. Med. 145 (3): 473–5. PMID 3838433.
Risk Factors
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Common risk factors in the development of silent thyroiditis include lithium, radiation therapy in Hodgkin’s lymphoma, cessation of corticosteroids in Cushing’s syndrome (post adrenalectomy), and certain autoimmune conditions.
Risk Factors
Common risk factors in the development of silent thyroiditis include lithium, radiation therapy in Hodgkin’s lymphoma, cessation of corticosteroids in Cushing’s syndrome (post adrenalectomy), and certain autoimmune conditions.[1][2][3][4][5]
Common Risk Factors
Common risk factors in the development of silent thyroiditis include:
- Lithium
- Radiation therapy in Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Cessation of corticosteroids in Cushing’s syndrome (post adrenalectomy)
Less Common Risk Factors
Less common risk factors in the development of silent thyroiditis include:
References
- ↑ Miller KK, Daniels GH (2001). “Association between lithium use and thyrotoxicosis caused by silent thyroiditis”. Clin. Endocrinol. (Oxf). 55 (4): 501–8. PMID 11678833.
- ↑ Magaro M, Zoli A, Altomonte L, Mirone L, La Sala L, Barini A, Scuderi F (1992). “The association of silent thyroiditis with active systemic lupus erythematosus”. Clin. Exp. Rheumatol. 10 (1): 67–70. PMID 1551281.
- ↑ Ozawa Y, Shishiba Y (1993). “Recovery from lymphocytic hypophysitis associated with painless thyroiditis: clinical implications of circulating antipituitary antibodies”. Acta Endocrinol. 128 (6): 493–8. PMID 8393255.
- ↑ Nagai K, Sakata S, Takuno H, Tanabashi S, Kametani M, Tokimitsu N, Miura K (1988). “A case of silent thyroiditis associated with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura”. Endocrinol. Jpn. 35 (6): 791–4. PMID 3250857.
- ↑ Wilkins M, Moe MM (2001). “Acute painless thyroiditis with transient thyrotoxicosis during external beam irradiation to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma of the thyroid gland”. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol). 13 (4): 311. PMID 11554636.</ref<ref name=”pmid8484389″>Yamakita N, Sakata S, Hayashi H, Maekawa H, Miura K (1993). “Case report: silent thyroiditis after adrenalectomy in a patient with Cushing’s syndrome“. Am. J. Med. Sci. 305 (5): 304–6. PMID 8484389.
Screening
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
There is insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening for silent thyroiditis.
Screening
There is insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening for silent thyroiditis.
References
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Silent thyroiditis presents with the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. It further leads to a euthyroid phase and eventually hypothyroid phase before the complete resolution of the disease. Complications may include hypothyroidism.
Natural history, complications, and prognosis
Natural history
Silent thyroiditis presents as painless thyroid gland with symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. It further leads to an euthyroid phase and eventually hypothyroid phase before the complete resolution of the disease.[1][2][3][4]
Hyperthyroid stage
It follows the prodromal stage and includes the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis such as:
- Tachycardia and tremors
- Irritability and nervousness
Euthyroid stage
Thyrotoxic stage is followed by a 1–3-week period of euthyroid phase.
Hypothyroid stage
The transient hypothyroid stage lasts for 6-12 months.
- Rarely, the hypothyroid stage may persist for a longer duration.
Complications
Complications that can develop as a result of silent thyroiditis include:[1][5][4]
Prognosis
Prognosis of silent thyroiditis is usually good.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 “Thyroiditis — NEJM”.
- ↑ Samuels MH (2012). “Subacute, silent, and postpartum thyroiditis”. Med. Clin. North Am. 96 (2): 223–33. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2012.01.003. PMID 22443972.
- ↑ Walker P (1984). “Silent thyroiditis”. Can Fam Physician. 30: 1337–9. PMC 2153523. PMID 21278944.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Díez JJ (1995). “[Silent thyroiditis and postpartum thyroiditis]”. Aten Primaria (in Spanish; Castilian). 16 (3): 147–50. PMID 7647209.
- ↑ Noh JY (2012). “[Silent thyroiditis and subacute thyroiditis]”. Nippon Rinsho (in Japanese). 70 (11): 1945–50. PMID 23214066.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | Electrocardiogram | X Ray | CT | MRI | Echocardiography or Ultrasound | Other Imaging Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies
Looking for the patient version?
© 2026 MyEClinic – IFTM Institut für Telematik in der Medizin GmbH

