Suppurative thyroiditis

The most common pathogens causing acute suppurative thyroiditis are bacteria, although fungi, viruses, and parasites have also been involved.1 Gram-positive bacteria, including staphylococcal and streptococcal species, are the most frequent causative organisms.2 In adults, the routes of infection are predominantly haematogenous or lymphatic; however, spread can also occur via direct traumatic inoculation from an adjacent infection or due to congenital anomalies.1,3 Typically, acute suppurative thyroiditis is preceded by an upper respiratory infection. Patients with pre-existing thyroid disorders have a greater predisposition for acute suppurative thyroiditis.1 Thyrotoxicosis does not typically accompany an episode of acute suppurative thyroiditis, but the disruption of follicles with release of preformed thyroid hormone into the circulation can lead to transient thyrotoxicosis.