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Painless (silent) thyroiditis

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Painless (silent) thyroiditis

Definition:

Painless (silent) thyoiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland characterized by passing hyperthyroidism, followed by hypothyroidism and recovery.

Alternative Names:
Lymphocytic thyroiditis; Subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis

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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of this type of thyroiditis is unknown. The disease affects women more often than men and usually develops in people between age 13 and 80. The symptoms are those of hyperthyroidism (overactivity of the thyroid gland), and may last for 3 months or less.

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