Research progress on the association between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and autoimmune encephalitis: a review

Abstract

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), which is the most common autoimmune thyroid disease, has, in recent times, been the subject of growing interest because of its possible link with autoimmune encephalitis (AE). This overview comprehensively reviews the epidemiological connections, shared immunopathological mechanisms, common clinical manifestations, diagnostic issues, and treatment methods of HT and AE. By combining the most recent progress in immunology, brain imaging, and clinical studies, we analyze the similarities and differences between HT-associated encephalopathy, commonly identified as Hashimoto’s encephalopathy, and the standard types of AE. Despite these advances, diagnostic and therapeutic challenges remain in patients who show neurological symptoms in the context of HT. The aim of this paper was to enhance the knowledge of clinicians about the connection between these two autoimmune disorders, normalize diagnostic procedures, and update treatment methods in order to achieve better patient results. Furthermore, this paper outlines some of the directions for future work that would help reveal mechanisms and develop clinical management.