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Updated: Sep 30, 2026

Synchronous Triplanar Reconstruction Integrated with Color Doppler Mapping for Precise and Rapid Localization of Thyroid Lesions
Published on: February 9, 2024
[Skin and hair, marker organs for thyroid diseases]
1Dermatologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsspital Basel. bohns@bluewin.ch
Abstract:
Skin and cutaneous appendages are target organs for thyroid hormones. Thus, a variety of changes of skin, hair and nails occurs in association with thyroid diseases. Most of these cutaneous changes are unspecific, but in their entirety they may nontheless be indicative of thyroid diseases. In this review the specific cutaneous lesions as thyroglossal duct cysts and cutaneous metastases of thyroid carcinoma, the unspecific cutaneous changes of hypo- respectively hyperthyroidism, the typical skin lesions of Grave's disease, and selected skin diseases and syndromes associated with thyroid abnormalities are discussed.
Insights
Thyroid hormones significantly impact skin, hair, and nails. This review details how various skin changes, both specific and unspecific, can indicate thyroid disease, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
Context:
- Skin, hair, and nails are sensitive indicators of thyroid hormone levels.
- Thyroid dysfunction frequently manifests with dermatological symptoms.
Purpose:
- To review specific and unspecific cutaneous changes associated with thyroid diseases.
- To highlight the diagnostic significance of skin lesions in thyroid disorders.
Summary:
- Discusses thyroglossal duct cysts and cutaneous metastases of thyroid carcinoma.
- Details unspecific cutaneous changes in hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
- Covers typical skin lesions in Grave's disease and associated syndromes.
Impact:
- Enhances understanding of the skin's role in thyroid disease diagnosis.
- Provides a comprehensive overview for clinicians managing thyroid-related dermatological conditions.
- Emphasizes the importance of dermatological examination in endocrinology.
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