Riedel's thyroiditis: A case report and review of the ultrasound findings of this rare disease entity.

INTRODUCTION

Riedel's thyroiditis is a rare inflammatory disease of the thyroid with non-specific and varied presentations. A typical presentation and ultrasound findings are reported in this case.

CASE REPORT

A 68-year-old male is referred to Ear, Nose and Throat for a neck lump that varied in size over 2 years. An ultrasound scan identified a suspicious nodule on the left thyroid that was biopsied confirming the diagnosis of Riedel's thyroiditis.

DISCUSSION

The aetiology, presentation and management of Riedel's thyroiditis are explored. The use of ultrasound and the utility of other imaging and biochemical tests are discussed.

CONCLUSION

Riedel's thyroiditis is a difficult condition to diagnose due to rarity, varied presentation, with non-specific clinical, biochemical and radiographic findings which often mimic thyroid cancers. Definitive diagnosis of Riedel's thyroiditis requires histological analysis, and while fine-needle aspirations are typically insufficient, diagnostic samples can be taken with ultrasound-guided core biopsies.