Autoimmunthyreoiditis

Die Autoimmunthyreoiditis (AIT) ist eine organspezifische Autoimmunerkrankung, die durch eine genetische Prädisposition, epigenetische Mechanismen und auch Umweltfaktoren entstehen kann. Der Beitrag diskutiert die aktuelle wissenschaftliche Literatur zur AIT sowie die Empfehlungen zur Levothyroxin (LT₄)-Substitution vor dem Hintergrund der aktuellen Leitlinien der American Thyroid Association (ATA) und European Thyroid Association (ETA).

Abstract

Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) is not only one of the most prevalent human autoimmune diseases, but also the most frequent cause of primary hypothyroidism. It is characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland with subsequent gradual destruction and fibrous replacement of thyroid tissue. Genetic predisposition, epigenetic modifications and environmental factors are suspected as disease triggers. Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, bradycardia, constipation and cold intolerance. In subclinical hypothyroidism, symptoms may be absent. The diagnosis of AIT is based on the presence of antibodies against thyroid specific antigens, primarily anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies and on a sonographically proven reduced echogenicity of the thyroid parenchyma. The diagnosis of concomitant hypothyroidism is primarily based on clinical signs and symptoms as well as measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-concentration. Subclinical hypothyroidism is characterized by elevated TSH with normal serum free thyroxine (fT₄) and triiodothyronine (fT₃) levels, while in manifest hypothyroidism serum fT₄ and fT₃ levels are reduced. Levothyroxine (LT₄) treatment in subclinical hypothyroidism is a controversy in the scientific literature and should be discussed individually. It not only depends on the level of TSH-elevation, but also on other factors, such as patient age, presence of comorbidities and clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism. In contrast, overt hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism with a TSH-level > 10 mIU/L is a strong indication for LT₄ administration, aiming at rapid achievement of euthyroidism. In patients with dissatisfaction due to persistence of symptoms despite optimal LT₄-treatment LT₄/T₃-combination therapy should be considered, based on expert opinion.

Schlüsselwörter

Autoimmunthyreoiditis - subklinische Hypothyreose - Thyroxin - LT4/T3-Kombinationstherapie

Key words

autoimmune thyroid disorder - subclinical hypothyroidism - thyroxine - LT4/T3-combination therapy

Publication History

Article published online:
13 October 2021

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