Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2026
10:19
Substernal Thyroid Biopsy Using Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration
Published on: November 10, 2014
25.7K
Subacute Thyroiditis Masking as Fever of Unknown Origin: An Intriguing Case Report.
Nishka Utpat1, Vinod Nookala2, Satyendra P Singh2
1Internal Medicine, Rutgers Health/Community Medical Center, Newark, USA.
Cureus
|September 18, 2023
Summary
Subacute thyroiditis can cause prolonged high-grade fever as a primary symptom, even without typical thyroid dysfunction signs. This case emphasizes considering thyroiditis in fever of unknown origin (FUO) evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Subacute thyroiditis is an inflammatory condition of the thyroid gland.
- It is often associated with viral infections and presents with neck pain and fever.
- Atypical presentations can pose diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old male presented with prolonged high-grade fever (2-3 weeks) and mild throat pain.
- Initial workup excluded infectious causes for the fever of unknown origin (FUO).
- The patient exhibited laboratory and imaging findings consistent with hyperthyroidism and thyroid inflammation.
Findings:
- Elevated free thyroxine (free T4) and suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) indicated hyperthyroidism.
- Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) confirmed an inflammatory process.
- Thyroid imaging revealed heterogeneous bilateral nodules.
Implications:
- This case underscores subacute thyroiditis as a critical differential diagnosis in FUO.
- Prompt and comprehensive thyroid evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.
- Recognizing atypical presentations can prevent diagnostic delays and ensure appropriate patient care.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) presents with diverse symptoms depending on the location and severity of the ulcer. Clinical manifestations of peptic ulcer include dull pain and a burning sensation in the mid-epigastric region.
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
01:30Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute pancreatitis presents a complex medical emergency characterized by rapid onset inflammation of the pancreas, demanding timely diagnosis and management to prevent complications. The condition primarily manifests through severe upper abdominal pain that often radiates to the back. This pain intensifies following the consumption of fatty foods. Accompanying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention, fever, dyspnea, cyanosis, and jaundice can vary in intensity but significantly...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:25Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas caused by the early activation of digestive enzymes, leading to the autodigestion of pancreatic tissue. This results in local inflammation and, in severe cases, systemic complications.EtiologyUnderstanding the underlying causes is crucial, as identifying the etiology guides treatment and anticipates complications. Acute pancreatitis can be triggered by various factors, typically grouped into the following clinical categories.Biliary...