Systematic review of COVID-19 and autoimmune thyroiditis

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• COVID-19, a severe acute respiratory syndrome, has been linked to various post-infectious complications.
• Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between COVID-19 and the development or exacerbation of autoimmune thyroid disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the literature on autoimmune thyroid disorders following COVID-19 infection.
• To assess the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of these conditions.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of case reports, case series, and observational studies was conducted.
• Literature search performed on PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science for autoimmune thyroiditis in COVID-19 patients.
• Included studies focused on Graves' disease, Hashimoto thyroiditis, and silent thyroiditis.

Main Results:

• No prevalence studies were identified; 20 cases were reported.
• Common diagnoses included Graves' disease (14 cases) and hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis (5 cases).
• The majority of affected patients were middle-aged females (80%); autoimmune thyroiditis occurred concomitantly or post-COVID-19.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 may precipitate new-onset autoimmune thyroid disease or worsen pre-existing thyroid conditions in remission.
• Routine thyroid function assessment during and after COVID-19 is recommended, especially for individuals with prior autoimmune thyroid disease.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to manage potential thyroid dysfunction and prevent severe outcomes.