Hashimoto's Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease and one of the leading causes of hypothyroidism worldwide. In this disorder, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, affecting its ability to produce essential hormones for metabolism. Below, we explore in detail what it is, its symptoms, prevalence, and its relationship with genetics.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: What Is It?
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto's disease, is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system produces antibodies that attack the thyroid gland. Over time, this inflammation leads to a progressive decline in thyroid function, which can result in hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Although thyroid inflammation may initially present without obvious symptoms, over time it can lead to a decrease in thyroid hormone production, affecting multiple body systems. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain without changes in diet or exercise
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and brittle hair
- Constipation
- Depression or mood changes
- Neck swelling (goiter) due to thyroid enlargement
- Difficulty to concentrate
Since these symptoms can be nonspecific and appear gradually, many people may take a long time to receive an accurate diagnosis.
Prevalence of Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is one of the most common autoimmune diseases. It is estimated to affect around 2% of the global population, being more prevalent in women than in men, with an approximate ratio of 10:1.
In general, the disease is diagnosed in middle-aged adults, although it can appear at any stage of life, including adolescents and the elderly.
Genetics and Other Risk Factors
Hashimoto's thyroiditis has a strong genetic component, with an estimated heritability of 70%. It has been observed that the predisposition to develop the disease is linked to certain genes associated with the immune system.
Among the most relevant genes in susceptibility to Hashimoto's thyroiditis are PTPN22, a key gene in the regulation of the immune response, and STAT4, which plays a role in immune system cell signaling. BACH2 has also been identified as a transcriptional regulator involved in immune cell development and immune tolerance. Additionally, SH2B3 has been associated with various autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, due to its role in lymphocyte activation regulation.
While genetics play an important role in its development, there are environmental factors that may contribute to the onset of the disorder:
- Deficiency or excess of iodine in the diet
- Viral or bacterial infections that may stimulate an abnormal immune response
- Chronic stress, which can affect immune system function
- Exposure to toxins or radiation
- Family history of thyroid or autoimmune diseases
These factors can act as triggers, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition, promoting the development of the disease. Discover your genetic predisposition with genetic tests like the one from ADNTRO.
