Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid)

Thyroiditis is the medical term for a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ in the neck, helps regulate how your body uses energy. When it becomes inflamed, it can lead to an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), or long-term thyroid problems. 

Thyroiditis is most often treated by endocrinologists, providers who specialize in hormone disorders. If surgery is needed for thyroid nodules or a goiter, a head and neck surgeon may also be involved. At Penn Medicine, our thyroid specialists provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options for all forms of thyroiditis. 

There are several types of thyroiditis: 

• Hashimoto’s disease   
• Subacute thyroiditis (de Quervain’s thyroiditis) 
• Silent thyroiditis (painless thyroiditis) 
• Postpartum thyroiditis 
• Drug-induced thyroiditis 
• Radiation-induced thyroiditis 
• Acute thyroiditis (suppurative thyroiditis) 
• Riedel’s thyroiditis 
• Acute infectious thyroiditis

Thyroiditis happens when the thyroid gland becomes inflamed, and its cells are damaged. This inflammation can have different causes depending on the type of thyroiditis. 

The most common cause is an autoimmune reaction, when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid instead of protecting it. This is seen in conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, silent thyroiditis, and postpartum thyroiditis. Other causes include viral infections (subacute thyroiditis), bacterial infections (acute infectious thyroiditis), certain cancer treatments like radioactive iodine or radiation therapy (radiation-induced thyroiditis), and some medications (drug-induced thyroiditis). 

Getting the right diagnosis is key when it comes to thyroiditis. At Penn Medicine, our endocrinologists work with radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to understand your condition and guide your care. This team approach helps us find clear answers and provide treatments that match your needs, including access to clinical trials when available.