postpartum thyroiditis

Introduction

A variant of subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis.

Etiology

• autoimmune etiology suggested

Epidemiology

• 5-7% of normal pregnancies
• 25% of pregnant diabetics

Pathology

Morphology:

• foci of lymphocytic infiltration
• increased interstitial fibrous tissue (occasional)

Clinical manifestations

• occurs near term

Management

• anti-microsomal Ab positive postpartum thyroiditis generally resolves in 2-4 months
• patients with postpartum thyroiditis should be monitored for development of hypothyroidism
• thyroxine replacement therapy often necessary during hypothyroid phase

More general terms

• subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis
• complications of the puerperium

Additional terms

• postpartum