Hypothyroidism (myxoedema) Flashcards
What are the 3 main aetiologies of hypothyroidism?
Autoimmune (primary)
Pituitary insufficiency (secondary)
Acquired
What are the 2 autoimmune conditions associated with hypothyroidism?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Primary atrophic hypothyroidism
What does hashimoto’s thyroiditis cause?
A goitre
What are the acquired causes of hypothyroidism?
Iodine deficiency
Iatrogenic
Congenital (agenesis)
What iatrogenic causes are commonly a cause of hypothyroidism?
Radionuclide treatment of hyper
Radiotherapy
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Tiredness and lethargy
Weight gain
Depression
Cold intolerence
Reduced concentration
What are the signs of hypothyroidism?
Bradycardia
Dry skin + hair
Slow reflexes
Toad like features
What blood tests should be done?
TSH levels
T4 levels
Thyroid antibodies
What would the results be for primary hypothyroidism?
T4 high
TSH low
Thyroid antibodies present
What would the results be for secondary?
T4 high
TSH low
Absent thyroid antibodies
What antibody is produced in Hashimoto’s?
Thyroid peroxidase antibody
What role does thyroid peroxidase usually play?
Combines tyrosine with with iodine in the colloid
Treatment?
Levothyroxine
What is subclinical hypothyroidism?
Pituitary goes into overdrive
High TSH
Normal T4
