A 30-year-old woman presents with thyroid swelling. On investigations, her TSH levels are found to be elevated. Postoperative reports showed lymphocytic infiltration and Hurthle cells. The most probable diagnosis is Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
To understand why Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the correct diagnosis, consider the following:
- TSH Levels: An elevation in TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) suggests hypothyroidism, a condition often associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis where the thyroid gland is underactive.
- Lymphocytic Infiltration: This is a hallmark of autoimmune thyroid disorders. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to lymphocytic infiltration.
- Hurthle Cells: These cells are enlarged epithelial cells with abundant granular cytoplasm, commonly found in Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The presence of Hurthle cells supports the diagnosis.
Considering these clinical and investigative findings, the most likely diagnosis is Hashimoto's thyroiditis.