What is the typical presentation associated with subacute granulomatous (de Quervain) thyroiditis?

Subacute granulomatous (de Quervain) thyroiditis typically presents with an enlarged, tender thyroid gland. This condition is often triggered by viral infections and manifests with symptoms such as fever and neck pain, which accompany the tenderness of the thyroid. The gland itself may be diffusely enlarged and painful to the touch, distinguishing this form of thyroiditis from other types.

While it is true that there can be transient changes in thyroid hormone levels during the course of the illness, the hallmark of this condition is the presence of a painful, swollen thyroid gland. This tenderness, along with the patient’s history of a preceding viral illness, sets de Quervain thyroiditis apart from other thyroid conditions that might cause similar symptoms but typically do not present with significant tenderness.