Infection of the thyroid is rare. It usually occurs in young children or debilitated patients. Most often, it occurs secondary to infection elsewhere.
Bacterial infection is most common. Agents include staphylococcal aureus - in one third of cases - streptococci, Salmonella, Enterobacter and mycobacteria. Fungal infection is rare.
Presentation is usually with painful enlargement of the thyroid gland.
The condition is usually transient. It may be treated with surgical drainage and antibiotics.
Long term thyroid dysfunction is rare.
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