Aetiology
Postprocedural hypothyroidism is a rare condition caused by the damage of the thyroid gland resulting from a medical procedure. The most common procedures that can lead to this condition include neck radiation therapy, thyroidectomy, and radioactive iodine treatment for Graves’ disease.
Diagnosis
Postprocedural hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by measuring the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) in the blood. An elevated TSH level, along with a low T4 level, is indicative of hypothyroidism. Additionally, a physical exam may be performed to look for signs of hypothyroidism, such as dry skin, thinning hair, and fatigue.
Differential diagnosis
Postprocedural hypothyroidism should be differentiated from other causes of hypothyroidism, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, and pituitary gland disorders.
Treatment
The treatment of postprocedural hypothyroidism typically involves the use of synthetic thyroid hormones to replace the lost hormones. The dosage of these hormones is adjusted over time to keep the levels of TSH and T4 in the normal range.
Prognosis
The prognosis for postprocedural hypothyroidism is generally good, with most patients responding well to hormone replacement therapy. However, some patients may require lifelong hormone replacement therapy to maintain normal thyroid hormone levels.