1 case of Graves' disease following subacute thyoiditis

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical characteristics and therapeutic considerations of Graves' disease following subacute thyoiditis. Method A case of Graves' disease following subacute thyroiditis was reported and the related literatures were reviewed. Results The patient was a 39 years old female. She came to hospital because of neck pain, fever, palpitation, emaciation for more than 20 days. After being hospitalized, routine blood test, biochemical tests, blood sedimentation, thyroid function, thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAb), thyroid ultrasound, thyroid 131-iodine uptake rate test were taken, finally she was diagnosed as subacute thyroiditis and abnormal liver function. The main treatment included prednisone anti-inflammatory, heart rate control, and hepatoprotection, all symptoms were improved after the treatment. However, 2 months later, she came to hospital again because of palpitation and hyperhidrosis. Thyroid function, TRAb, thyroid ultrasound, and thyroid 131-iodine uptake rate test were taken again, and Graves' disease was diagnosed. Because of liver damage, she finally chose 131-iodine treatment. Conclusions Graves' disease following subacute thyoiditis is rare, and the early diagnosis is very difficult. TRAb, thyroid function, biochemical tests should be taken, sometimes thyroid 131-iodine uptake rate test should be done if necessary. Key words: Subacute thyroiditis; Graves'disease; Thyrotropin receptor antibodies