Riedel's thyroiditis

Riedel's thyroiditis is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease characterized by a fibrosing process that invades the thyroid gland and extends into adjacent neck structures. It is named after the German pathologist Friedrich Ernst Riedel, who first described the condition in 1896.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of Riedel's thyroiditis can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience:

A hard, painless mass in the neck
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Hoarseness or voice changes
Cough

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of Riedel's thyroiditis is unknown. However, it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Riedel's thyroiditis is often difficult due to its rarity and the lack of specific symptoms. It is usually diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsy.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Riedel's thyroiditis is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications. This may include:

Medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system
Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland
Radiation therapy

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for Riedel's thyroiditis is generally good, although the disease can cause significant morbidity due to its invasive nature and potential for causing complications.

References[edit | edit source]

Riedel's thyroiditis Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.