Thyroiditis

Abstract

This article summarizes the current understanding of the mechanisms of destruction in autoimmune thyroid disease. The authors explain the approach to the diagnosis and treatment of the most common types of thyroiditis, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, painless postpartum thyroiditis, and painless sporadic thyroiditis. Thyroid dysfunction can also develop from treatment with medications such as amiodarone, lithium, interferon alfa, and interleukin-2.