Rheumatological Masks of Hypothyroidism

Abstract

Aim: To demonstrate clinical cases of hypothyroidism in adolescents manifested under the guises of rheumatic diseases. Key points. We presented the cases of hypothyroidism which required differential diagnostics with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Thyroid arthropathy course is demonstrated. Conclusion. Hypothyroidism is characterized by nonspecific symptoms (weakness, oedema) which are also typical for SLE and JIA; thyroid hormones measurement for diagnostics is necessary. If joint syndrome remains in spite of hypothyroidism compensation repeated differential diagnostics of thyroid arthropathy and JIA is required. Keywords: adolescents, hypothyroidism, juvenile arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, thyroid arthropathy.