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Subacute Thyroiditis (De Quervain)

Painful self-limiting thyroid disease developing after viral infection.

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 Subacute Thyroiditis (De Quervain)?

Subacute thyroiditis (De Quervain thyroiditis or granulomatous thyroiditis) is a painful and self-limiting thyroid inflammation that usually appears 2-8 weeks after a viral upper respiratory infection. Most often seen in middle-aged women (30-50 years).

Histopathologically, giant cells, granulomatous inflammation, and fibrosis are detected in thyroid tissue. The disease typically follows three phases: thyrotoxic phase (hormone release due to follicular damage), hypothyroid phase, and euthyroid phase (recovery).

High ESR, low radioactive iodine uptake, and clinical findings aid in diagnosis. The disease usually resolves completely in 2-6 months; permanent hypothyroidism is seen in 5-15% of cases.

Symptoms

Severe pain in the front of the neck
Pain radiating to the jaw and ear
Tenderness and firmness in the thyroid gland
Fever and malaise
Pain increasing with swallowing
Thyrotoxicosis findings (palpitations, weight loss)
Later hypothyroidism findings
History of viral infection (previous 2-8 weeks)

Risk Factors

Recent viral upper respiratory infection
Being 30-50 years old
Female sex (3-5 times more frequent)
HLA-B35 positivity
Seasonal factors (late summer-autumn)
Viral disease epidemics
Genetic predisposition
Stress and immune status changes

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Sudden pain and swelling in the front of the neck
  • Pain increasing with swallowing
  • Fever and tenderness in thyroid area
  • Palpitations and weight loss
  • Subsequent fatigue and cold intolerance
  • Neck pain developing after viral infection

Treatment Methods

01
NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain control
02
Oral prednisolone in severe cases
03
Beta-blockers (during thyrotoxicosis phase)
04
Temporary levothyroxine in hypothyroid phase
05
Bed rest and supportive treatment
06
Regular TSH, free T4 monitoring
07
ESR and CRP follow-up
08
Complete recovery expected, improvement in 90% of cases

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.