Profil et caractéristiques de la thyroïdite de Hashimoto dans une population hospitalière de Sétif : étude analytique et descriptive

Abstract

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland and one of the leading causes of hypothyroidism in regions with sufficient iodine intake. It results from an immune response directed against thyroid cells, characterized by the presence of anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) autoantibodies, leading to a progressive impairment of thyroid function. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, measurement of thyroid hormones (TSH, FT3, and FT4), detection of thyroid autoantibodies, and thyroid ultrasonography. The standard treatment relies on hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine. However, increasing interest in complementary approaches has led to the investigation of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), a medicinal plant known for its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti- inflammatory properties. Several studies suggest that this plant may help improve hormonal balance, modulate the immune response, and support thyroid function. This dissertation highlights the pathophysiological mechanisms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis as well as the therapeutic potential of ashwagandha as a natural complementary approach in the management of this disease