hypothyroidism (own work)

Question 1

what is hypothyroidism?

Answer 1

-the term used to describe an inadequate output of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland

Question 2

what is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the western world?

Answer 2

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Question 3

what antibodies is hashimotos thyroditis associated with?

Answer 3

• anti thyroid peroxidase (anti TPO) antibodies

- anti thyroglobulin antibodies

Question 4

what is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the developing world?

Answer 4

-iodine deficiency

Question 5

why is iodine so important for thyroid hormones?

Answer 5

-your thyroid takes in and oxidises iodine to begin to create triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4)

Question 6

what are the main causes of hypothyroidism?

Answer 6

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Iodine deficiency
• Treatment for hyperthyroidism (carbimazole, propylthiouracil, radioactive iodine, thyroid surgery)
• Medications (lithium, amiodarone)

Question 7

what is secondary hypothyroidism?

Answer 7

-hypothyroidism caused by pituitary pathology that results in low production of TSH. Thyroid hormones will be low due to low TSH

Question 8

what is primary hypothyroidism?

Answer 8

-hypothyroidism caused by a thyroid gland insufficiency. Thyroid hormones (T3 + T4) will be low. TSH will be high because there is no negative feedback to the brain, so the pituitary gland produces lots of TSH to try and get the thyroid working

Question 9

what is primary hypothyroidism?

Answer 9

-hypothyroidism caused by a thyroid gland insufficiency. Thyroid hormones (T3 + T4) will be low. TSH will be high because there is no negative feedback to the brain, so the pituitary gland produces lots of TSH to try and get the thyroid working