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Autoimmunity and the pathogenesis of localized thyroid autonomy (Plummer's disease)
Clinical Endocrinology
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Autoimmunity may contribute to Plummer's disease pathogenesis. Thyroid growth-stimulating immunoglobulins (TGI) were detected in patients, suggesting a role in chronic thyroid stimulation and autonomous follicle development.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Thyroidology
Background:
- The exact cause of Plummer's disease (localized thyroid autonomy) is not fully understood.
- Thyroid follicles can exhibit diverse cellular properties, with hyperactive follicles potentially developing from highly replicative and hormonogenic cells under mild chronic stimulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of autoimmune factors in the pathogenesis of Plummer's disease.
- To determine the presence and significance of thyroid growth-stimulating immunoglobulins (TGI) and thyroid microsomal antibodies in patients with Plummer's disease.
Main Methods:
- Serum analysis for thyroid growth-stimulating immunoglobulins (TGI) in patients with Plummer's disease.
- Detection of haemagglutinating antibodies against thyroid microsomal antigen in patients and controls.
- Clinical evaluation of patients, including assessment of goitre suppressibility.
Main Results:
- Thyroid growth-stimulating immunoglobulins (TGI) were found in low or intermediate titres in 7 out of 9 patients with Plummer's disease.
- Thyroid microsomal antibodies were present in low titres in some patients with Plummer's disease.
- Two patients exhibited a suppressible goitre alongside the autonomous nodule, with one case detailed.
Conclusions:
- Autoimmunity may play a pathogenic role in Plummer's disease.
- Low titres of TGI could provide the chronic mild stimulation necessary for generating hyperactive thyroid follicles.
- Patients with Plummer's disease may represent a part of the spectrum of autoimmune thyroid diseases.
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