De Quervain De QuerPAIN
De Quervain’s thyroiditis, also known as subacute thyroiditis, is a condition causing temporary inflammation of the thyroid gland. There are three phases:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Return to normal
The initial thyrotoxic phase involves:
- Excessive thyroid hormones
- Thyroid swelling and tenderness
- Flu-like illness (fever, aches and fatigue)
- Raised inflammatory markers (CRP and ESR)
It is a self-limiting condition, and supportive treatment is usually all that is necessary. This may involve:
- NSAIDs for symptoms of pain and inflammation
- Beta blockers for the symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
- Levothyroxine for the symptoms of Hypothyroidism
A small number (under 10%) remain hypothyroid long-term.