Hashimoto's thyroiditis: outcome of surgical resection for patients with thyromegaly and compressive symptoms

The purpose of this study was to determine the indications and outcome of surgery in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT).

All patients who underwent thyroidectomy from 1990 to 2009 with pathologically confirmed HT were identified. Patients whose principle diagnosis was HT were evaluated for symptoms and outcome of thyroidectomy.

Thirty-two (15%) of 216 patients with HT were referred with thyroid enlargement and compressive symptoms; 25 (78%) had an associated nodule and 12 (38%) had retrosternal extension. Symptom resolution occurred in 30 (94%) and improvement occurred in 2 (6%) patients after total thyroidectomy in 21 (66%) and thyroid lobectomy in 11 (34%) patients. The only complication was transient hypocalcemia in 12 (38%) patients. One patient had an incidental thyroid lymphoma.

HT is a cause for diffuse or nodular goiter that may impinge on vital structures in the neck and thyroidectomy is safe and effective for relief of compressive symptoms.