The Old and the New in Subacute Thyroiditis: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Subacute thyroiditis (SAT) is the most common cause of neck pain and thyrotoxicosis. Although this disease was recognized already by the end of the 18th century, new concepts regarding pathogenesis have emerged in recent years. Moreover, in the last two years, literature on SAT has increased significantly due to articles describing the possible connection with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This integrative review depicts old and new concepts of this disease, proposing a detailed overview of pathogenesis, a practical approach to diagnosis and treatment, and a thorough description of the latest discoveries regarding the association of SAT with COVID-19.

Keywords

• subacute thyroiditis
• De Quervain thyroiditis
• destructive thyroiditis
• SARS-CoV-2
• COVID-19