Question
How long does silent (painless) thyroiditis typically last?
| A. |
A. 2–3 days |
| B. |
B. 1–2 weeks |
| C. |
C. 2–6 months |
| D. |
D. Over 1 year |
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » C Explanation |
 |
Silent (Painless) Thyroiditis
Definition
- Autoimmune, self-limiting thyroiditis.
- Also called subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis.
- Often occurs postpartum but may occur sporadically.
Clinical Features
- Painless, mildly enlarged thyroid.
- Mild symptoms of thyrotoxicosis.
- No fever or neck tenderness.
- May progress to transient hypothyroidism before recovery.
Laboratory Findings
- Elevated Free T4 and Free T3 during the thyrotoxic phase.
- Suppressed Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH).
- Positive anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies in many patients.
- Low radioactive iodine uptake.
Disease Course
- Thyrotoxic phase: 2–8 weeks.
- Hypothyroid phase: Several weeks to months.
- Complete recovery: Usually within 2–6 months.
Treatment
- β-blockers for symptomatic relief during the thyrotoxic phase.
- Antithyroid drugs are not indicated because increased thyroid hormone levels result from hormone leakage rather than increased synthesis.
- Levothyroxine may be used temporarily if hypothyroidism is symptomatic or prolonged.