摘要: Publisher Summary This chapter discusses several types of autoimmune thyroiditis (AT). Goitrous or Hashimoto's and atrophic primary myxedema, result in hypothyroidism, it is likely these represent two ends a spectrum thyroid destruction. The goiter usually firm painless, with an irregular surface. Patients are often euthyroid at presentation but serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels can be elevated even if thyroxine (T4) within the reference range, representing subclinical failure. Primary myxedema identified only when hypothyroidism apparent clinically biochemically. Furthermore, Graves' disease shares many features AT what determines type disorder critical issue. So far genetic susceptibility factors have proven nonspecific more detailed analysis may reveal specific genotypes for disease. Future studies clarify relative importance stress, iodine intake, infection, hormonal alterations. It particularly important to study mechanisms earliest possible stage so that initiating rather than enhancing role assessed.