A case series of subacute thyroiditis associated with COVID-19 infection
Abstract
Subacute thyroiditis can be one of the clinical manifestations of COVID-19, as has been reported in several previous cases. ACEI receptors are found in several cells and tissues of the body, one of which is in thyroid follicular cells, thus making the thyroid gland a potential target for entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This case series describes that subacute thyroiditis is one of the clinical manifestations of COVID-19. All patients underwent an anamnesis, physical examination, examination of serum thyroid hormone TSH and FT4, inflammatory markers (CRP), and thyroid ultrasound during hospitalization. In this case series, it was reported that 7 confirmed COVID-19 patients with positive RT-PCR results had clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism; the most common symptom is palpitation with the onset of varying. The results of laboratory examinations in four patients showed a decrease in FT4 levels, while in 3 patients, the FT4 was within normal limits. In all patients, there was a decrease in TSH and an increase in inflammatory markers (CRP). In one patient, an ultrasound examination of the thyroid found thyroiditis. The patient gets antithyroid therapy, steroids and b-blocker drugs for rate control. Of patients with outcome, 6 (86%) recovered and 1 (14%) died. We report a case series of thyroiditis that can be a clinical manifestation of COVID-19 infection. Clinicians should be aware of the manifestations of thyroiditis in COVID-19 patients. Early diagnosis and early therapy will provide good outcomes for COVID-19 patients.