de Quervain’s thyroiditis [Fritz de Quervain; Gk, thyreos, shield, itis, inflammation] , an acute inflammatory condition of the thyroid characterized by swelling and tenderness of the gland. Also called giant cell thyroiditis, granulomatous thyroiditis, subacute thyroiditis. Should not be confused with Graves’ disease. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: Symptoms associated with both hyperthyroid and hypothyroid disease may be present during the course of the inflammation. The condition is characterized by low-grade fever, difficulty swallowing, fatigue and severe pain in the neck, ears, and jaw. The diagnosis may be made by a radiological scan showing depressed uptake of radioactive iodine in involved areas. Occasionally a fine-needle biopsy of the thyroid is performed. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Treatment may include antiinflammatory medication, such as aspirin or NSAIDs, if the condition continues for more than a few days. Corticosteroids are prescribed for prolonged or severe cases. ▪ PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS: The disorder often occurs after a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It tends to remit spontaneously and to recur several times.
