Which autoimmune condition can result in an underactive thyroid and lead to hypothyroidism?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the autoimmune condition that specifically leads to hypothyroidism. This disorder occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and gradual destruction of the thyroid tissue. As this tissue is damaged, the gland's ability to produce thyroid hormones diminishes, resulting in an underactive thyroid. This condition is characterized by the presence of thyroid-specific antibodies that target various components of the thyroid, such as thyroglobulin and thyroid peroxidase.

In contrast, Graves' disease typically results in hyperthyroidism rather than hypothyroidism, as it is an autoimmune condition that causes the overproduction of thyroid hormones due to stimulation of the thyroid gland by antibodies. Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus are autoimmune disorders that primarily affect joints and multiple body systems, respectively, but they do not directly cause hypothyroidism as a primary mechanism. Therefore, Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the condition that directly correlates with the development of an underactive thyroid gland, consequently leading to hypothyroidism.