Date of Award

Summer 8-11-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (MMSc)

First Advisor

Catherine Dinauer, MD

Abstract

Autoimmune thyroid disease, a condition characterized by lymphocytic infiltration and inflammation of the thyroid gland by thyroid peroxidase antibodies, is the most common cause of acquired hypothyroidism in the pediatric population. The development of autoimmune thyroid disease stems from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but the specific factors are largely uncharacterized. While thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the standard of care for the management of hypothyroidism, there is no cure for the underlying autoimmune process. Thus, there is an urgent need for interventions that may help patients better manage their disease. In this randomized controlled trial, we will investigate whether diet, specifically a gluten-free diet, affects the mean levels of thyroid peroxidase antibodies in children with autoimmune thyroid disease. This study will generate insights into the effect of diet on autoimmune thyroid disease and may lead to findings that might inform clinical care.

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