Hypothyroidism

Question 1

what is hypothyroidism?

Answer 1

inadequate output of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland

Question 2

what’s the most common cause of hypothyroidism?

Answer 2

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Question 3

what is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?

Answer 3

• autoimmune condition that results in inflammation of the thyroid

Question 4

what two antibodies are associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?

Answer 4

• antithyroid peroxidase antibodies
• antithyroglobulin antibodies

Question 5

what’s the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the developing world?

Answer 5

iodine deficiency

Question 6

difference between primary and secondary hypothyroidism?

Answer 6

primary = due to decreased activity of thyroid
secondary = due to decreased secretion of TSH

Question 7

general theme of symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Answer 7

Question 8

what drug is given to combat hypothyroidism?

Answer 8

• levothyroxine (synthetic T4 which metabolises to T3 in the body)
• dose adjusted up and down until TSH levels become normal

Question 9

give two autoimmune causes of hypothyroidism

Answer 9

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• primary atrophic hypothyroidism

Question 10

Investigations for hypothyroidism?

Answer 10

• TFT: T4, T3, TSH
• antibodies - antithyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO)

Question 11

what ages does hypothyroidism mainly affect?

Answer 11

> 40 years old

Question 12

What ratio does hypothyroidism affect males and females?

Answer 12

F>M - 6:1

Question 13

Which one of the following is associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?

Atrial fibrillation
Congestive heart failure
Sudden cardiac arrest
Hypertension
MALT lymphoma

Answer 13

MALT lymphoma