Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.

Written by Li Hui Zhi

Endocrinology

Updated on September 16, 2024

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Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease. Some patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis have normal thyroid function and generally do not require treatment, but it is recommended to regularly review thyroid function and have thyroid ultrasonography. Some patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may also suffer from hypothyroidism, which can manifest clinically as fatigue, constipation, and edema. If these symptoms are present, it is advisable to visit an endocrinology specialist promptly, complete thyroid function tests, and use thyroid hormone supplements under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Chen Xie

Endocrinology

1min 19sec

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Can Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients eat iodized salt?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid disease, which can manifest in three thyroid function states: hyperthyroidism, euthyroidism, and hypothyroidism. The dietary requirements for iodized salt vary depending on the thyroid state. When Hashimoto's thyroiditis coexists with hyperthyroidism, an iodine-restricted diet is necessary. When thyroid function is normal in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, iodine intake should still be limited, as excessive iodine can cause a thyroiditis that changes from euthyroid to dysfunctional. Therefore, iodized salt can be consumed, but the intake of iodine-rich foods such as kelp, seaweed, and seafood should be restricted. When Hashimoto's thyroiditis coincides with hypothyroidism, iodized salt can be consumed without specific restrictions; both iodized and non-iodized salt are acceptable. This is because, at this stage, thyroid function primarily requires hormone replacement therapy, so the consumption of iodized salt has no effect.

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Written by Chen Xie

Endocrinology

1min 8sec

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Hashimoto's thyroiditis diagnostic indicators

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a type of autoimmune thyroiditis, which can present in various phases regarding thyroid function, manifesting as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or normal thyroid function. Therefore, for patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, it is necessary to check thyroid function to understand its status. Since Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroiditis, the thyroid peroxidase antibodies and thyroglobulin antibodies are generally elevated. Additionally, it is necessary to perform thyroid ultrasound to assess the thyroid's condition. For some difficult-to-distinguish patients, a further examination such as a 131I uptake test can be conducted, where the uptake rate in Hashimoto's thyroiditis is reduced. Even further, a fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid can be performed, where we can observe significant lymphocyte infiltration.

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Written by Tang Zhuo

Endocrinology

55sec

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How is Hashimoto's thyroiditis caused?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune disease and is the most common type of thyroiditis clinically. Its etiology is primarily immunological, as Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder. Therefore, patients can detect a high concentration of anti-thyroid antibodies through blood tests, such as anti-thyroglobulin antibodies and anti-microsomal antibodies. Additionally, genetic factors are involved, with about 50% of patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis having a family history. Environmental factors, including radiation, infections, excessive dietary iodine, and selenium deficiency, can also lead to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. In recent years, the incidence of Hashimoto's thyroiditis has notably increased.

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Written by Tang Zhuo

Endocrinology

53sec

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How to test for Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is a common type of autoimmune thyroid disease and the main cause of primary hypothyroidism. Often, Hashimoto's thyroiditis may present no symptoms, having hidden onset and slow development. Typical symptoms include general fatigue, throat discomfort, localized pressure, or dull pain. Hashimoto's thyroiditis can lead to damage by the autoimmune system, causing permanent hypothyroidism. Diagnosis can be facilitated through thyroid function tests, iodine-131 uptake tests, anti-thyroid antibody tests, thyroid ultrasound, and thyroid nuclear scanning.

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Written by Chen Xie

Endocrinology

1min 13sec

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What kind of salt should be consumed for Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a type of autoimmune thyroiditis that can manifest as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or normal thyroid function during its progression. Therefore, there are different requirements for the type of salt to consume depending on the state of thyroid function. When Hashimoto's thyroiditis presents with hyperthyroidism, it is recommended to consume non-iodized salt. When thyroid function is normal in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, iodized salt can be consumed. When Hashimoto's thyroiditis is accompanied by hypothyroidism, there is no specific requirement for consuming iodized or non-iodized salt. Because at this stage, the thyroid has largely lost its ability to synthesize thyroid hormones, and treatment involves replacing them with levothyroxine to maintain thyroid function. Therefore, the intake of iodine does not matter, and one can freely choose to consume iodized or non-iodized salt. Thus, the choice of salt in Hashimoto's thyroiditis should be based on thyroid function testing.