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Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases

A combined discussion of Hashimoto's and Graves' diseases, which develop when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases?

Autoimmune thyroid diseases cover a group of disorders caused by an abnormal immune response targeting the thyroid gland. Hashimoto's thyroiditis (chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis) leads to hypothyroidism, while Graves' disease leads to hyperthyroidism — the two poles of the spectrum. Both are identified by thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-thyroglobulin, TSH-R antibody).

Genetic predisposition (HLA-DR3, HLA-DR5, etc.) and environmental triggers (stress, iodine intake, infections, drugs) play a role in disease emergence. They are 5-10 times more common in women than in men. They coexist with other autoimmune diseases (type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease).

The treatment approach differs between the two diseases: levothyroxine replacement when needed in Hashimoto's; in Graves' disease, one of antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, or surgery.

Symptoms

Hashimoto: fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, constipation, depression
Graves: palpitations, weight loss, sweating, nervousness, exophthalmos (bulging eyes)
Thyroid enlargement (goiter) may be seen in both forms
Periodic symptom variability (transient shift from hyper- to hypothyroidism is possible)
Fatigue and joint pain may be seen in both forms

Risk Factors

Female sex and age range 30-60
Family history of autoimmune thyroid disease
Presence of other autoimmune disease
Pregnancy and postpartum period
High iodine intake or iodine deficiency
Smoking (especially for Graves ophthalmopathy)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If there is unexplained fatigue, weight change, or palpitations
  • When thyroid antibody positivity is detected
  • When neck enlargement or goiter develops
  • For thyroid function assessment in women planning pregnancy
  • For screening if there is a family history of autoimmune thyroid disease

Treatment Methods

01
In Hashimoto hypothyroidism: initiation of levothyroxine (TSH>10 or symptomatic)
02
In Graves' disease: methimazole (first-choice antithyroid drug)
03
Radioactive iodine (I-131): definitive therapy, permanently reduces thyroid function
04
Thyroidectomy: for large goiter, malignancy suspicion, or antithyroid drug failure
05
Selenium, steroid, or IV glucocorticoid in Graves ophthalmopathy
06
Monitoring and management of concurrent autoimmune diseases

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.