Hyperthyroidism: etiology, diagnosis/differential diagnosis, treatmentHyperthyroidism: etiology, diagnosis/differential diagnosis, treatment

Hyperthyroidism, as an endocrine disorder, is caused either by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones or the presence of goitrous diseases, both of which cause an increased metabolic rate along with several other disturbances of the body systems. This article addresses the latest information concerning the clinical picture of etiopathogenesis, diagnostics, differential diagnosis, and treatment of hyperthyroidism. The primary causes of this disease include autoimmune conditions including Graves' disease nodular toxic goitre and functional autonomies of the thyroid gland.

To ascertain the diagnosis, we rely on clinical methods, laboratory procedures, including tests for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4), and imaging techniques, such as thyroid ultrasound and radio-iodine scan.

Focus diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is particularly critical to such degenerative diseases as sub-acute thyroiditis or thyroid cancer in cases when management is determined by the need to take appropriate measures directed towards therapy.

Modern views on the management of patients with hyperthyroidism are also presented, including medical treatment using thyrostatics, radio iodine therapy and surgery if conservative treatment fails. Comprehensive lifestyle modification programs are effective for these patients; therefore, diet and exercise recommendations are also highlighted in this article.

This study seeks to give up-to-date information on the diagnosis and management of hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, the study highlights the fact that prognosis in such patients can be improved with appropriate early diagnosis.