Differential Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders Based on Clinical Presentation

Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases: Graves’ Disease and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Thyroid disorders, particularly autoimmune conditions such as Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, can present with diverse clinical manifestations. Understanding their distinguishing features is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Graves’ Disease

• Etiology: Caused by autoantibodies stimulating the TSH receptor.
• Clinical Presentation: Symptoms include tachycardia, exophthalmos, weight loss, and heat intolerance.
• Diagnostic Markers: Elevated free T4 and T3, suppressed TSH, presence of TSI (thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin).

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

• Etiology: Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis leading to gradual thyroid dysfunction.
• Clinical Presentation: Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and goiter.
• Diagnostic Markers: Elevated TSH, low free T4, presence of anti-TPO and anti-Tg antibodies.

Differential Diagnosis Approach

Clinicians distinguish these conditions based on antibody profiles, imaging, and hormone levels. A detailed clinical history and laboratory evaluation play a key role.