Workshop on Thyroid Gland Disorders and Diseases

Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases:

These are disorders characterized by either an increase or decrease in the secretion of thyroid hormones. They result from the immune system attacking the thyroid gland.

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Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis:

In this condition, immune system cells cause the destruction of thyroid hormone-producing cells, usually resulting in reduced hormone production (hypothyroidism).

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Information on Thyroid Disorders

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Graves’ Disease:

In this condition, the immune system produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to secrete excess hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.

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Diagnosis:

• Clinical examination and medical history by a physician.

• Laboratory tests:

  • Blood tests: TSH, T3, T4

  • Antibody tests: Anti-TPO, Anti-TG

• Imaging studies: Thyroid ultrasound.

• Radioactive iodine uptake tests.

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The Thyroid Gland:

The thyroid is one of the largest endocrine glands in the body.
It is located below the larynx and weighs about 15–20 grams.
It secretes two main hormones:

• Thyroxine (T4)

• Triiodothyronine (T3)

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Regulation of Thyroid Hormone Secretion:

Hormone secretion is regulated by both:

• The hypothalamus, which releases Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)

• The pituitary gland, which releases Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)

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Goiter (Thyroid Enlargement):

This is an increase in the size of the thyroid gland, which may be caused by:

• Iodine deficiency

• Certain medications

• Cancerous cells

• Or it may be idiopathic (unknown cause)

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Physiological Functions of the Thyroid Gland:

• Metabolism

• Nervous system regulation

• Cardiovascular system support

• Heat production

• Sleep regulation

• Energy and activity levels

• Reproductive system function

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Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid):

• Decreased body temperature

• Persistent fatigue and low energy

• Weight gain

• Irregular menstrual cycles in women

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Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid):

• Increased heart rate (palpitations)

• Difficulty concentrating

• Bulging eyes

• Weight loss

• Excessive sweating

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Thyroid Diseases:

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid):

A deficiency in thyroid hormone secretion.

• Primary hypothyroidism: Problem originates in the thyroid gland itself

• Secondary hypothyroidism: Problem lies in the pituitary gland

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid):

An increase in thyroid hormone secretion.

• Primary hyperthyroidism: Due to a problem in the thyroid gland

• Secondary hyperthyroidism: Due to a problem in the pituitary gland

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Thyroid Tumors:

• Benign

• Malignant