Investigation of Coxsackie Virus Type B in Grave’s Thyroiditis

Abstract

Thyroiditis is a broad term that refers to a variety of clinical conditions marked by inflammation and damage to thyroid cells. These disorders can be chronic or acute, include lymphocytic infiltration, have a microbial cause, or be linked to autoimmune thyroid disease, such as in Graves’ disease (GD). This cross-sectional study aimed to detect anti-TSH antibodies and investigate Coxsackie virus B (CVB) IgM and IgG antibodies in the serum of patients to know their role in the pathogenesis of thyroiditis. The study included 91 patients suffering from thyroid dysfunction through thyroid hormone tests (FT3, FT4 and TSH) by Snibe Maglumi-800 Chemiluminescence Immunoassay, where they were divided into three groups (subclinical thyroiditis, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism). To determine which of them has Graves’ disease, detection of anti-TSH Ab have been performed then detection of antibodies to specific CVB IgM and IgG in the sera of patients by ELISA. The results of serology showed that the percentage of anti-TSH antibodies in the three groups was (68.13%), and the percentage was the highest in the hyperthyroidism group, which amounted to (85%). The serological diagnosis also showed that the presence of antibodies to CVB IgM was (65.93%) while, IgG levels were (20.87%). Conclusions: Coxsackie virus B infection is commonly seen in patients with thyroiditis and may have a role in the its pathogenesis.

Keywords: Coxsackie virus B, Graves’ disease, Thyroiditis.