Vol. 2, Issue 1, Part A (2020)

Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that may be painful and tender when caused by infection, radiation, or trauma, or painless when caused by autoimmune conditions, medications, or an idiopathic fibrotic process. Hence, the degree of radioactive iodine uptake by the gland is reduced in most patients with viral, radiation-induced, autoimmune, or drug-induced inflammation of the thyroid. Treatment primarily is directed at symptomatic relief of thyroid pain and tenderness, if present, and restoration of euthyroidism. Awareness of adolescent girls regarding knowledge on risk factors of thyroiditis can prevent infective thyroiditis and complications.