American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test 2026 - Free Pathology Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder encountered in clinical practice. This condition is characterized by an underproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to a range of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression, among others. It can result from autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, or other forms of thyroid dysfunction.

The high prevalence of hypothyroidism can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing recognition of autoimmune thyroid diseases in the population, as well as the widespread use of screening tests that help identify subclinical cases. Additionally, the condition is more frequently diagnosed in women and older adults, which adds to its prevalence.

While hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and thyroid cancers are significant and clinically relevant, they occur less frequently in the general population compared to hypothyroidism. This distinction underscores the importance of understanding the various thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, as it represents a major aspect of endocrine pathology that pathologists and clinicians encounter regularly.