Subacute thyroiditis

Alternative names:

De Quervain's thyroiditis; giant cell thyroiditis; granulomatous thyroiditis; subacute granulomatous thyroiditis

Treatment:

The purpose of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation and to treat any hyperthyroidism, if present. Analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications may be needed for several weeks. During the period when the disease is active, hyperthyroidism may require treatment with beta-blockers.

Expectations (prognosis):

Spontaneous improvement is the rule, but the illness may persist for months; however, long-term or severe complications do not usually occur.

Complications:

• relapse of subacute thyroiditis

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder are present; also call if you have thyroiditis and symptoms do not improve with treatment.