Burn-induced Myxedema Crisis
Myxedema crisis (MC) is a rare but life-threatening illness characterized by multi-system organ impairment from thyroid hormone deficiency that is often brought on by an eliciting event. We present the case of MC with a rapid progression of hypothermia, altered mental status, and respiratory failure...
| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
eScholarship Publishing, University of California
2017-03-01
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| Series: | Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine |
| Online Access: | https://escholarship.org/uc/item/1p6194rq |
| Summary: | Myxedema crisis (MC) is a rare but life-threatening illness characterized by multi-system organ impairment from thyroid hormone deficiency that is often brought on by an eliciting event. We present the case of MC with a rapid progression of hypothermia, altered mental status, and respiratory failure that was instigated by a flash burn to the face. The patient’s condition was refractory to rewarming and supportive efforts until thyroid hormone was replaced. This case illustrates the need for a high index of suspicion for patients with a rapid onset of metabolic encephalopathy immediately after an injury or burn. |
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| ISSN: | 2474-252X |