Differential Diagnosis for Hashimoto's
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the context, as it is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. The presence of thyroid antibodies and thyroid gland inflammation are characteristic of this condition.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Subacute thyroiditis: This condition involves inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's, such as thyroid tenderness and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
- Postpartum thyroiditis: This condition occurs in some women after childbirth and can cause hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. It is often associated with the presence of thyroid antibodies.
- Iodine deficiency: Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, and a deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Thyroid lymphoma: Although rare, thyroid lymphoma can present with symptoms similar to Hashimoto's, such as a rapidly enlarging thyroid gland. It requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma: This type of thyroid cancer can produce thyroid hormones and cause symptoms similar to hypothyroidism. It is essential to rule out this condition, especially if there is a family history.
- Pituitary adenoma: A tumor in the pituitary gland can affect thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) production, leading to hypothyroidism.
- Rare diagnoses
- Riedel's thyroiditis: A rare form of chronic thyroiditis characterized by a hard, fibrotic thyroid gland that can cause compressive symptoms.
- De Quervain's thyroiditis: A rare form of subacute thyroiditis caused by a viral infection, which can lead to thyroid inflammation and hypothyroidism.
- Congenital hypothyroidism: A rare condition present at birth, which can cause hypothyroidism due to thyroid gland abnormalities or dysgenesis.