Hashimoto Thyroiditis - A Comprehensive Review

Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder leading to hypothyroidism, influenced by factors such as diet, genetics, sex, epigenetics, and comorbidities. It is characterized by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland, with genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and loss of tolerance to thyroid antigens contributing to its development. Symptoms often appear later and include constipation, fatigue, dry skin, weight gain, and hair loss, among others. Diagnosis is made through physical examination, detection of thyroid-specific auto-antibodies, and imaging techniques like ultrasonography. Treatment primarily involves levothyroxine sodium (L-T4), but can also include glucocorticoids, dietary changes, selenium, vitamin D supplementation, and thyroidectomy in severe cases. The review provides a detailed analysis of HT's epidemiology, etiology, risk factors, genetics, pathophysiology, classifications, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatments.