Multifocal idiopathic fibrosclerosis manifesting with Riedel's thyroiditis

Abstract

Objective: To discuss our experience with a case of Riedel's thyroiditis manifesting in conjunction with several other fibrosclerotic lesions.

Methods: We describe a case of multifocal fibrosclerosis and its response to glucocorticoid therapy.

Results: A 46-year-old man with dyspnea, dysphagia, and hoarseness was found to have Riedel's thyroiditis, sclerosing cholangitis, retroperitoneal fibrosis, and renal cortical fibrosis. Treatment with high-dose glucocorticoids in the early stages of the disease and maintenance therapy with low-dose glucocorticoids in later stages of the disease had a beneficial effect. Serial follow-up assessments with determination of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and computed tomographic imaging of the abdomen and thorax are recommended for monitoring of disease activity.

Conclusion: Glucocorticoids are currently the treatment of choice for progressive multifocal fibrosclerosis. Accumulation of further clinical data is needed to determine more precise treatment strategies.