Subacute thyroiditis

In patients with mild symptoms of hypothyroidism and a TSH <10-15 mIU/L, usually no levothyroxine is offered, but patients have their thyroid function (TSH level) rechecked regularly every 4 to 6 weeks, when symptoms can also be reassessed.

If levothyroxine replacement is required, it is usual to check TSH every 4 to 6 weeks, to monitor response to therapy and allow adjustments to be made.

Overall, in ≥90% of patients there is a spontaneous, complete recovery to normal thyroid function. It is uncommon for recurrence of the disease after a complete recovery; therefore, no long-term monitoring of thyroid dysfunction is needed following a prior episode of subacute thyroiditis.