Abstract
Disclosure: B.K. Ray: None. R. Kaur: None. L. Kaur: None. M. Thakur: None.
Introduction: Myxedema coma is a severe and life-threatening form of hypothyroidism. It is a rare occurrence with an incidence of 0.22 per million per year, associated with a high mortality rate ranging from 30 to 60% even with early diagnosis and treatment. This condition arises when the body's response to hypothyroidism is overwhelmed by factors like infection, surgery, and medication noncompliance. The definitive management is with thyroid hormones but supportive measures and identification and treatment of the precipitating factors is also vital. The case discussed concerns an elderly woman with myxedema coma due to noncompliance to Levothyroxine. This case stresses the importance of consistent medical follow-ups. Case Presentation: A 73 year old female presented to the hospital with altered mental status for about 32 hours. Vital signs at presentation showed hypotension (80/50 mmHg), bradycardia (54 beats per minute), tachypnea (32 breaths per minute) and hypothermia (33.2 °C). A computed tomography scan of the brain and Computed tomography angiography of the head/neck showed no stenosis or large vessel occlusion of the vasculature. Initial pertinent laboratory test results revealed a white blood cell count of 6.1 (3.7–11.0×103/uL), hemoglobin level of 14.3 (11.5–16.0 g/dL), sodium level of 131 (136–145 mmol/L), glucose level of 142 (65–125 mg/dL). Troponin, lactate and procalcitonin were normal. She was intubated and transferred to the Intensive care unit. Thyroid function tests revealed a markedly elevated TSH of 37.9 (0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L) and a decreased T4 of 0.3 (0.9-1.7 ng/dL). She was immediately started on hydrocortisone 100 mg Three times daily and initiated on intravenous levothyroxine monotherapy with a loading dose of 200 mcg followed by 100 mcg daily. Her T4 level was trended daily and she demonstrated gradual improvement. She was successfully extubated. On discussion she reported noncompliance with her medications. Hydrocortisone was tapered and she was started on her home dose of oral Levothyroxine (200 mcg) after four days of Intravenous levothyroxine. She was counselled on medication compliance and discharged to home. Conclusion: Myxedema, an extreme form of hypothyroidism, is life-threatening and requires immediate admission to intensive care. Symptoms are usually vague, and require a high degree of suspicion. Treatments include thyroid hormone supplementation, steroid replacement and supportive care. Early detection and quick intervention are crucial for survival. Patient education on medication compliance, regular testing, and reporting new medication to prevent interference with thyroid metabolism is crucial.
Presentation: 6/1/2024