Table 2.
Hyperthyroidism Occurring in SARS-CoV-2.
| Manifestation | Potential mechanisms proposed | Approximate number of cases | References |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thyroiditis post SARS-CoV-2 infection | Cytokine storm induced. Direct viral damage to the thyroid gland (potential direct entry of virus into thyroid gland using ACE-2 receptors) |
At least 47 reported cases | 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Thyroiditis post SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination | Molecular mimicry between viral spike protein and autoantigens. | 2 cases | 22 |
| Thyroid storm | Cytokine-storm induced. Induction of new-onset Graves’ disease. |
3 (including 1 case reported here) | 15, 16 |
| Graves’ disease post SARS-CoV-2 infection | Dysregulated host immune response. Molecular mimicry between viral spike protein and autoantigens. Recurrence of disease previously in remission. |
11 (including 2 cases reported here) | 10-16 |
| Graves’ disease post SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination | Molecular mimicry between viral spike protein and autoantigens. Adjuvant induced. |
2 | 21 |
Abbreviation: ACE2 = angiotensin-converting enzyme 2.