diagnosis
Last reviewed 01/2018
The condition may be suspected clinically on the basis of the goitre with or without hypothyroidism.
Serum TSH is usually raised.
Measurement of antithyroid antibodies reveal:
- antithyroid peroxidase antibodies (previously known as thyroid microsomal antibodies) - high titre
- thyroglobulin antibodies - low titre
The gland may feel lumpy or irregular and biopsy may be necessary to distinguish it from a carcinoma of the thyroid. Surgical incision has been likened to cutting through an unripe pear.