Differential Diagnosis for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the patient's suspicion. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that causes hypothyroidism, and it is a common cause of thyroiditis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Subacute thyroiditis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, such as neck pain and thyroid dysfunction.
- Silent thyroiditis: This is a painless form of thyroiditis that can cause temporary hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism, similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- Postpartum thyroiditis: This condition occurs in some women after childbirth and can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, such as thyroid dysfunction and fatigue.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Thyroid lymphoma: Although rare, thyroid lymphoma can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, such as a rapidly enlarging thyroid gland. Missing this diagnosis could be deadly if left untreated.
- Thyroid cancer: Certain types of thyroid cancer, such as papillary or follicular thyroid cancer, can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Early detection and treatment are crucial for a good prognosis.
- Graves' disease: Although Graves' disease typically causes hyperthyroidism, some patients can present with hypothyroidism, making it a potential "do not miss" diagnosis.
- Rare diagnoses
- Riedel's thyroiditis: This is a rare form of thyroiditis characterized by a hard, fibrotic thyroid gland that can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- De Quervain's thyroiditis: This is a rare form of subacute thyroiditis caused by a viral infection, which can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- Eosinophilic thyroiditis: This is a rare form of thyroiditis characterized by an eosinophilic infiltration of the thyroid gland, which can cause symptoms similar to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.