What causes Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and what is the best method of treatment? Can iodine help this condition?

Question

Mr. Lybrate-user, hashimoto's thyroiditis (ht), is an autoimmune disease, where our own immune cells produce antibodies against thyroid secreting cells destroying the the hormone secreting cells leading to hypothyroidism. There are antibodies seen against thyroid peroxidase enzyme. (anti tpo abs). Plus there is infiltration of lymphocytes in thyroid cells, making the gland firm and globulated. One of the causes for ht is supposed to be excess iodine intake due to iodinated salt. Treatment is to supplement thyroxine hormone regularly. This is the main cause of thyroid deficiency in usa. Iodine has no role in the treatment of ht.

Prabhakar Laxman Jathar · Accepted Answer

Mr. Lybrate-user, hashimoto's thyroiditis (ht), is an autoimmune disease, where our own immune cells produce antibodies against thyroid secreting cells destroying the the hormone secreting cells leading to hypothyroidism. There are antibodies seen against thyroid peroxidase enzyme. (anti tpo abs). Plus there is infiltration of lymphocytes in thyroid cells, making the gland firm and globulated. One of the causes for ht is supposed to be excess iodine intake due to iodinated salt. Treatment is to supplement thyroxine hormone regularly. This is the main cause of thyroid deficiency in usa. Iodine has no role in the treatment of ht.