Endocrinopathies: Chronic Thyroiditis, Addison Disease, Pernicious Anemia, Graves' Disease, Diabetes, and Hypophysitis

Abstract

Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (CLT), also known as Hashimoto thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland, with the concomitant production of autoantibodies to thyroid antigens, primarily thyroglobulin and/or thyroperoxidase (TPO), formerly known as microsomal antigen (1). Although few epidemiological data are available, the prevalence of CLT is estimated to be 1 in 1,000 people, with an incidence of 0.2 to 2% and a female-to-male ratio of about 18:1 (1). Clinical signs and symptoms manifest slowly and may involve many systems of the body (1). Accumulations of hydrophilic mucoproteins with edema, a condition called myxedema, affects skin and connective tissue and can affect the appearance of the individual. Lethargy may ensue, with a loss of mental acuity. Systems commonly affected are the gastrointestinal tract, the hemopoietic system, the endocrine system, and the urogenital system (1). Enlargement of the thyroid gland due to lymphocyte invasion, called goiter, is a frequent manifestation, although there is an atrophic variation. Demonstration of autoantibodies to the thyroid antigens aids in the diagnosis of CLT, distinguishing it from other causes of hypothyroidism.