Corticosteroids thyroid gland

Radiation thyroiditis is an infrequent complication resulting in swelling and localized pain over the thyroid gland which subsides spontaneously or with anti-inflammatory or corticosteroid therapy (SEDA-1, 314). 

During the acute phase of a viral infection of the thyroid gland, there is destruction of thyroid parenchyma with transient release of stored thyroid hormones. A similar state may occur in patients with Hashimoto s thyroiditis. These episodes of transient thyrotoxicosis have been termed "spontaneously resolving hyperthyroidism." Supportive therapy is usually all that is necessary, such as propranolol for tachycardia and aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to control local pain and fever. Corticosteroids may be necessary in severe cases to control the inflammation. 

There are many types of steroid hormones in the body, such as the sex/gonadal hormones testosterone and estrogen, thyroid hormones, growth hormones, and stress hormones, which serve various normal functions. One type of steroid— corticosteroids or glucocorticoids—is secreted by the adrenal glands (located just above the kidneys). These steroids, particularly synthetic versions of them, have powerful antiinflammatory actions that help to relieve pain. They are often given as an epidural injection to relieve neck or back pain that results from a compressed or pinched nerve. They can also be injected directly into a joint to relieve pain caused by inflammation in conditions such as tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons), carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, bursitis (inflammation of sac-like cavities in tendons or muscles that allow them to slide easily over bone), or other joint pain. Professional athletes, who routinely experience one or more of these conditions, are often given local steroid injections. Frequently, the steroid is combined with a local anesthetic such as lidocaine. 

Ipodate, which inhibits the conversion of thyroxine to triiodothyronine, is useful in reducing the intensity of thyroid storm. Sympathoplegic drugs are also useful, and propranolol is the most commonly used agent. Further release of hormone from the gland is blocked by intravenous administration of sodium iodide supplemented by oral potassium iodide. Synthesis is inhibited by oral or, if necessary, parenteral antithyroid drugs. Corticosteroids are sometimes used. 

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