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Updated: May 16, 2026
04:09
Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter
Published on: September 20, 2024
A case of severe and recurrent painless thyroiditis requiring thyroidectomy
Hiroaki Ishii1, Masahiro Takei, Yoshihiko Sato
1Department of Aging Medicine and Geriatrics, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan. hiro_i@shinshu-u.ac.jp
Summary
Severe painless thyroiditis, a condition causing thyrotoxicosis, can be effectively managed with thyroidectomy when medical treatments fail. This case highlights surgery as a viable option for recurrent, severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Thyroidology
- Immunology
Background:
- Painless thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition characterized by transient thyrotoxicosis.
- Recurrent or severe cases may necessitate alternative management strategies.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old male presented with severe thyrotoxicosis due to painless thyroiditis.
- Diagnostic findings included low radioactive iodine uptake and negative TSH receptor antibodies.
- The patient experienced recurrent episodes of thyrotoxicosis.
Findings:
- Thyroidectomy was performed to prevent a thyrotoxic storm.
- Histological examination confirmed typical lymphoid infiltration consistent with painless thyroiditis.
Implications:
- Surgical intervention, specifically thyroidectomy, can be a successful treatment for severe and recurrent painless thyroiditis.
- This case broadens the therapeutic options for managing refractory painless thyroiditis.
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