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Definition of Thyroiditis

Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland which is located in front of the neck:

Thyroid Gland - Thyroiditis

The inflamed thyroid gland can release an excess of thyroid hormones into the blood stream, resulting in a temporary hyperthyroid state. Once the thyroid gland is depleted of thyroid hormones, the patient commonly goes through a hypothyroid (low thyroid) phase. This phase can last 3-6 months until the thyroid gland fully recovers. Thyroiditis can be diagnosed by a thyroid scan (a picture taken of the thyroid gland after radioactive iodine is taken by mouth).

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5784
Last Editorial Review: 3/26/1998 2:29:00 PM

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