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Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland and the most common cause of hypothyroidism in iodine-replete countries.

Also: Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis

Diagnosed by elevated TSH, low free T4, and positive thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Ab). Treatment is lifelong levothyroxine taken on an empty stomach with attention to absorption-altering foods (coffee, calcium, iron) and medications (PPIs, bile acid sequestrants). Adequate but not excessive iodine and selenium support thyroid function.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 31

    Diagnosed by elevated TSH, low free T4, and positive thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Ab). Treatment is lifelong levothyroxine taken on an empty stomach with attention to absorption-altering foods (coffee, calcium, iron) and medications (PPIs, bile acid sequestrants). Adequate but not excessive iodine and selenium support thyroid function.

Related terms

Graves Disease, Hypothyroidism, Levothyroxine