scholarly journals Thyroid Storm Treated With Nonconventional Therapy

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. A962-A962
Author(s):  
Caroline Tashdjian ◽  
Paul Shiu ◽  
Tarandeep Kaur

Abstract Background: Thyroid storm is a rare sequela of thyrotoxicosis with mortality rate of 10-30%. Management of thyroid storm is heavily dependent on thionamides. Cholestyramine and potassium iodide (SSKI) are used as adjunctive therapy and not as the sole treatment for storm. We present a case of thyroid storm treated with cholestyramine and SSKI. Clinical Case: A 45 year old male with past medical history of atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, hypertension, substance abuse and grave’s disease presented to the emergency department (ED) for diarrhea. During the course of ED, patient went into atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular rate. Chest X-ray showed pulmonary edema. Labs were: TSH <0.0025 mIU/L (0.35-4.94 mIU/L) and free T4 3.52 ng/dl (0.7-1.40 ng/dl). Patient was noncompliant with methimazole. Upon admit, ACLS was initiated due to hypoxia and transferred to ICU for ventilator and pressor support. Wartofsky score was 60, suggestive of thyroid storm. Management included methimazole 20mg every 4hours, hydrocortisone 100mg every 8 hours, cholestyramine 4mg every 6 hours, and SSKI 250mg every 6 hours for thyrotoxicosis and amiodarone infusion for afib. Despite normal liver enzymes on admit, day 3 AST increased to 2740 U/L (5-34) and ALT 2684 U/L (0-55). Methimazole was stopped due to potential hepatotoxicity. Day 3 free T4 remained high at 4.16 ng/dl and patient remained critically ill. Plasmapheresis was offered as methimazole was stopped and patient was hemodynamically unstable to undergo surgery. However, family declined this intervention; SSKI and cholestyramine were continued. Free T4 was monitored over the course of treatment; by day 5 free T4 trended down to 1.93 ng/dl. SSKI was eventually stopped on day 8 of treatment as free T4 had normalized and cholestyramine reduced to 4mg twice daily. By day 15, free T4 was 0.8 ng/dl, so cholestyramine was stopped. Due to clinical improvement, patient was weaned off the ventilator and pressor support along with hydrocortisone. Liver enzymes normalized by Day 17. Patient was restarted on methimazole 5mg daily before discharge. Discussion: Thyroid storm is associated with varying degree of liver dysfunction, which can pose a challenge to treatment. In our case, acute fulminant liver failure was multifactorial in the setting of shock, thyroid storm and potential drug toxicity. Thus, thionamides were contraindicated. Radioactive iodine treatment was contraindicated due to use of amiodarone. Plasmapheresis and emergent thyroidectomy could not be done. Thus, nonconventional therapy was used and patient responded well to treatment. This case emphasizes the use of cholestyramine along with SSKI as an effective treatment in patients who are critically ill the setting of a thyroid storm, especially when thionamides are contraindicated and other avenues of treatment are limited.

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (48) ◽  
pp. 2885-2887
Author(s):  
Anjali Chandrasekharan ◽  
Thasreefa Vettuvanthodi ◽  
Priya Jayasree ◽  
Suvarna Kaniyil ◽  
Nanda Lakshmi Anitha

An elderly female aged 65 years weighing 69 Kgs presented to the Pre-Anaesthetic Clinic (PAC) for transurethral resection of bladder carcinoma. As part of the evaluation of bladder carcinoma, Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) abdomen done showed a left adrenal lesion. She was a known case of hypertension since the last 10 years and was on telmisartan tablets 40 mg once daily (OD) since then. She had a history of palpitations 3 years back, which when evaluated was diagnosed as atrial fibrillation. She was started on metoprolol tablets 25 mg OD and warfarin 2 mg OD. In view of her history and positive findings on CECT abdomen, it was decided in the PAC to screen her for pheochromocytoma. There was no definite history of classic triad of headache, palpitation and sweating. No history of headache, weight loss, fatigue, syncopal attacks, hypo / hyperthyroidism were reported. Physical examination showed Heart Rate (HR) of 96 beats per minute (bpm), irregular in rhythm, Respiratory Rate (RR) of 16 breaths per minute and Blood Pressures (BP) of 146 / 98 mmHg and 140 / 90 mmHg in the supine and sitting positions respectively. Biochemical test results showed 24-hour urine metanephrine 0.452 mg / l which is 1.45 mg / 24 hrs. (normally < 1 mg / 24 hrs.) and urine vanillylmandelic acid 8.1 mg / gm creatinine (2 – 7 mg / gm). Electrocardiography (ECG) showed right bundle branch block and AF (Atrial Fibrillation) with controlled ventricular rate. Echocardiography showed mild aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation and ejection fraction of 68 % with no evidence of clots / thrombus. In terms of clinical imaging, the CECT showed a well-defined lesion in the left adrenal measuring 19 x 12 mm with a relative washout of 21 % and a faint subtle hyperdense lesion in the base of left lateral wall of the urinary bladder measuring approximately 20 x 19 mm. Other blood investigations like Hb, haematocrit, urea, creatinine and blood sugars were within normal limits.


Circulation ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 142 (Suppl_3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Randy Ip ◽  
Zulfiqar Qutrio Baloch ◽  
manel boumegouas ◽  
Abdullah Al abcha ◽  
Steven Do ◽  
...  

Introduction: Certain patient demographics and biomarkers have been shown to predict survival in patients infected with COVID-19. However, predictors of outcome in patients who are critically ill and require advanced respiratory support are unclear. Methods: We performed a multicenter analysis of 159 consecutive patients with confirmed COVID-19 who were admitted to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) between March 01, 2020 and April 30, 2020. Patients were then followed until May 23, 2020. Demographic data (age, sex, race, BMI) and past medical history (hypertension, diabetes, COPD, CKD, history of cardiac ischemic disease, atrial fibrillation and heart failure) were recorded. Laboratory values (troponin, CPK, pro-BNP, ferritin, LDH and d-dimer) were analyzed. Patient status was classified as either alive or deceased at hospital discharge or the end of follow up period. Results: Mean patient age was 66+/-15 and 53% were male. Mean BMI was 31+/- 9. Mean hospital ICU stay was 11+/-8 days. Mortality rate of this ICU cohort at the end of follow-up was 63%. Fifty-five (34%) patients were discharged from the hospital. A multivariable logistic regression analysis identified four factors (age, prior history of diabetes, prior history of atrial fibrillation and elevated troponin) that had significant and independent contributions to the likelihood of survival. Each increase in decade of age above 40 (p = 0.010) was predicted to reduce survival by 30%, the presence of diabetes (p = 0.041) by 57%, a prior history of atrial fibrillation (p= 0.011) by 75%, and each increase of 0.1 ng/mL of troponin above 0.05 ng/ml (p = 0.001) by 55%. Conclusion: Mortality of critically ill COVID-19 patients is high. Early aggressive treatment of high-risk patients identified in this study (advanced age, history of diabetes and atrial fibrillation and elevated troponin) could improve clinical outcome. The highly predictive value of elevated troponin levels on survival may indicate cardiac involvement of COVID-19 infection as a determinant of mortality. Additionally, of available published literature at this time, this is the first study that suggests a relationship between atrial fibrillation and increased mortality from COVID-19. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.


2012 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-61 ◽  
Author(s):  
Livia R. Macedo ◽  
Jehan Marino ◽  
Brady Bradshaw ◽  
Joseph Henry

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune syndrome with symptoms such as tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, and psychiatric symptoms. Limited evidence exists for the treatment of Graves’ hyperthyroidism-induced psychosis with atypical antipsychotics. A 47-year-old female with a psychiatric history of bipolar disorder presented for the first time to the psychiatric hospital. She was agitated and grossly psychotic with delusions. Electrocardiogram showed atrial fibrillation and tachycardia. Drug screen urinalysis was negative. Endocrine workup resulted in a diagnosis of Graves’ disease (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH]: 0.005 μIU/mL, triiodothyronine [T3]: 537 ng/dL, thyroxine [T4]: 24 mcg/dL, free T4: 4.5 ng/dL, positive antithyroid peroxidase antibody, and antinuclear antibody). Aripiprazole 10 mg daily was initiated and titrated to 15 mg daily on day 4. On day 16, her suspicious behavior, judgment, and insight improved. Other medications given included aspirin 325 mg daily, metoprolol 25 mg twice daily, titrated to 12.5 mg twice daily, and methimazole 30 mg daily, titrated to 20 mg twice daily, and discontinued on day 29. The patient received radioiodine I-131 treatment 1 week later. We report the first known case on the use of aripriprazole to treat Graves’ hyperthyroidism-induced psychosis. Further studies examining the long-term effects and appropriate dose and duration of aripiprazole in this patient population are needed.


2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. e239306
Author(s):  
Shrestha Ghosh ◽  
Atanu Chandra ◽  
Sourav Sen ◽  
Sukanta Dutta

Electrical injuries can have myriad presentations, including significant cardiac involvement. Arrhythmias are the most frequently experienced cardiac affliction, of which sinus tachycardia or bradycardia, ventricular fibrillation, atrial or ventricular premature beats and bundle branch block are most commonly reported. A 50-year-old man, with no prior history of cardiac disease, presented with palpitations following low voltage electrical injury. On examination, he was tachycardic with an irregularly irregular pulse. An ECG confirmed atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular rate. Chemical cardioversion was attempted successfully, following which the patient reverted to sinus rhythm. Atrial fibrillation following electrical injury has been rarely described in the literature, and is rarer so without associated high voltage electrical exposure or pre-existing cardiac ailment.


2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-4 ◽  
Author(s):  
Neeraja J. Boddu ◽  
Sridhar Badireddi ◽  
Karl David Straub ◽  
John Schwankhaus ◽  
Rajani Jagana

Objective. Acute thyrotoxic bulbar palsy is rare, severe, and rapidly progressive. We describe a case of thyrotoxicosis with bulbar palsy, encephalopathy, and pyramidal tract dysfunction.Case Report. 64-year-old white male with toxic multinodular goiter presented with rapid atrial fibrillation. He had mild tremor, normal cranial nerve examination, 4/5 strength in all extremities, normal reflexes, and down going plantars. TSH was low at 0.09 (normal: 0.34–5.6 uIU/mL), and free T4 was high at 5.22 (normal: 0.47–1.41 ng/dL). Despite optimal AV nodal blockade, he had persistent rapid atrial fibrillation. He later developed cervical dystonia, rigidity, clonus, dysarthria, dysphagia, vocal cord palsy, and absent gag reflex. Thyroid storm was suspected. Neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid cultures were nondiagnostic. Acetylcholine receptor antibodies were negative. Swallow ability was impaired with heavy secretions. Remarkable improvement in symptoms was noted after initiation of treatment for thyroid storm.Conclusion. Pyramidal tract symptoms and bulbar palsy may occur with thyrotoxicosis. Cranial nerve involvement and encephalopathy raise a question of primary brain mechanism causing bulbar palsy. This is reversible with prompt treatment of thyroid storm.


2016 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 140-145 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeremiah J. Duby ◽  
Shannon J. Heintz ◽  
Sarah A. Bajorek ◽  
Brett H. Heintz ◽  
Blythe P. Durbin-Johnson ◽  
...  

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac dysrhythmia. Its prevalence, risk factors, course, and complications are not well described in critically ill trauma patients. This was a retrospective, single-center, cohort study at an academic, level 1 trauma center. Trauma patients >18 years, identified from the trauma registry and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), were sequentially screened for AF. A matched cohort was created by selecting patients consecutively admitted before and after the patients who experienced AF. Of 2591 patients screened, 191 experienced AF, resulting in a prevalence of 7.4%. There was no difference in injury severity score (ISS) between those with and without AF, but patients with AF had higher observed mortality (15.5% vs 6.7%, P < .001). Patients with a history of AF (n = 75) differed from new-onset AF (n = 106) in their mean age, 78.9 ± 8.4 versus 69.2 ± 17.9 years; mean time to AF onset, 1.1 ± 2.3 versus 5.2 ± 10.2 days; median duration of AF, 29.8 (1-745.2) versus 5.9 (0-757) hours; and rate of AF resolution, 28% versus 82.1%, respectively. Despite a higher ISS, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment and length of stay, the new-onset AF group experienced a similar rate of mortality compared to the history of AF group (14.7% vs 16.0%). Patients with AF had a higher mortality when compared to those in sinus rhythm. The course of AF in the new-onset AF group occurred later was shorter and was more likely to convert; however, these patients had a longer ICU stay when compared to those who had a history of AF.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Aye Chan Maung ◽  
Daphne Gardner Su-Lyn Tan

Abstract Background Thyroid storm is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism. Whilst a thyroid storm is known to be a hypercoagulable state, it remains unclear if routine anticoagulation should be initiated, especially in the absence of atrial fibrillation. Case presentation A 22-year-old seaman presented to Accident and Emergency Department with a history of severe generalized abdominal pain and vomiting for 9 days. He was previously well with no significant past medical history. On examination, he appeared very anxious and agitated. He had sinus tachycardia (170 beats/min), was normotensive (Blood pressure 116/90 mmHg). He had exophthalmos, lid lag, a diffusely enlarged goiter with bruit and fine tremors on outstretched hands. There was generalized abdominal tenderness with guarding and sluggish bowel sounds. Electrocardiogram confirmed sinus tachycardia. Laboratory results showed primary hyperthyroidism [Free T4 66.2 (0.8–14.4 pmol/L), TSH &lt;0.010 (0.65–3.70 MU/L)]. TSH Receptor Antibody was elevated at 6.23 IU/L (&lt;1.76 IU/L), consistent with Grave’s Disease. He had acute renal impairment [urea 10.8 (2.7–6.9 mmol/l), creatinine 221 (54–101 umol/l)]. Burch & Wartofsky score was 60. Treatment with rectal propylthiouracil (PTU), i.v sodium iodide and i.v hydrocortisone were initiated. An initial CT Abdomen on Day 1 of admission demonstrated a long segment of jejunitis and marked distension of the duodenum, stomach and oesophagus. 4 days later, fT3 and fT4 levels had improved as did tachycardia and his confusion state, yet he remained febrile. Blood and urine cultures did not reveal any causative organisms. A contrast-enhanced CT revealed extensive thromboses of the portal, superior mesenteric, right external iliac, common femoral veins with left lower lobe pulmonary embolism. Thrombophilia screen was normal. He was given low-molecular-weight heparin and required total parenteral nutrition in view of prolonged bowel ileus from mesenteric ischaemia. Rectal PTU was continued to treat thyrotoxicosis. He made sufficient progress with improvement of the bowel ileus with s.c enoxaparin and was discharged 6 weeks later on oral carbimazole (on discharge: fT4 10pmol/L, TSH&lt;0.010). However, due to extensive thromboses within the mesenteric venous system and consequent ischaemic jejunitis, he required a jejunectomy eventually 2 weeks later. Radioiodine ablation was subsequently given and he is currently hypothyroid requiring thyroxine replacement. Conclusion Extensive systemic thromboembolism may occur in the setting of a thyroid storm. Routine prophylactic anticoagulation should be considered, even in the absence of atrial fibrillation. References 1. Lin HC et al. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis 2010, 8: 2176–2181 2.Kootte et al. Thromb Haemost 2012; 107: 417–422 3. Franchini et al. Clinical and Applied Thrombosis 2010, 17(4) 387–392


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Erin E Finn ◽  
Kalie L Tommerdahl ◽  
Kari L Hayes ◽  
Christine L Chan

Abstract Introduction: The thyroid gland is highly resistant to infection due to a robust blood supply, good lymphatic drainage, and high iodine concentration. Suppurative thyroiditis (ST) often presents with fever, tachycardia, leukocytosis, tenderness, and euthyroid labs. However, when ST occurs with thyrotoxicosis, it can meet criteria for thyroid storm, which presents a diagnostic dilemma. Clinical Case: A 17 year old female with family history of Graves’ disease presented to the ER with a sore throat. She was diagnosed with viral pharyngitis and treated with dexamethasone. Over the next 2 weeks, she developed fatigue, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and chills. She returned to the ER and was found to have tachycardia, hyperthyroidism [free T4 5.64 ng/dL (0.8 - 2.0 ng/dL), TSH &lt;0.015 uIU/mL (0.5 - 4.5 uIU/mL)], and WBC 11 k/uL (3.5 - 11.5 k/uL). She was prescribed atenolol and referred to Endocrinology. Three days later she developed fever, diaphoresis, ear pain, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In the ER, she was febrile to 101.2°F with a heart rate (HR) of 117 BPM. Labs showed a free T4 6.14 ng/dL, TSH &lt;0.015 uIU/mL, and WBC 20 k/uL. She was treated with methylprednisolone, propylthiouracil, and labetalol with improvement and transferred for concern of impending thyroid storm. Exam showed left-sided thyroid enlargement with tenderness. Thyroid ultrasound showed an enlarged heterogenous left thyroid lobe with 2 nodules, one 25 x 33 x 21 mm heterogenous and one 19 x 11 x 19 mm homogenous, without discrete abscess. That night she developed vomiting, hand tremors, HR in the 130’s BPM, fever to 104.1°F, and a headache. Treatment was initiated with methimazole, SSKI drops, propranolol, and dexamethasone. Symptoms improved save persistent neck tenderness and dysphagia. CT neck demonstrated a left-sided 25 x 17 x 90 mm abscess with concern for 4th branchial apparatus abnormality. She underwent incision and drainage with drain placement. Cultures grew Streptococcus anginosus and Fusobacterium necrophorum. Broad spectrum antibiotics were started and later narrowed to ampicillin-sulbactam. Betablockers and methimazole were discontinued and thyroid labs nearly normalized by discharge [T4 11.8 mcg/dL (4.5-11.5 mcg/dL), free T4 2.0 ng/dL (0.8-2 ng/dL), and total T3 78 ng/dL (100-210 ng/dL)]. Thyroid auto-antibodies were negative. Discussion: In patients with ST, only 11% present with hyperthyroidism. Current thyroid storm scoring systems are sensitive but not specific so an acute bacterial infection with thyrotoxicosis can easily meet criteria. While ultrasound is standard for assessing for thyroid abscesses, in the setting of high clinical suspicion, further imaging with contrasted neck CT is warranted.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nikoletta Proudan ◽  
Kersthine Andre

Abstract Hydatidiform mole (HM), a type of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), is a rare cause of clinical hyperthyroidism. The development of hyperthyroidism requires an elevation of HCG &gt;100,000 mlU/mL for several weeks. Complete mole has a marked HCG elevation compared to partial mole thus presents with a higher incidence of thyrotoxicosis. Surgical uterine evacuation is the treatment of choice for HM. However, untreated hyperthyroidism can pose a risk for the development of thyroid storm and high-output cardiac failure in the perioperative period. To our knowledge, there are no specific guidelines for management at this time. We present a case of hyperthyroidism secondary to complete molar pregnancy successfully treated with propylthiouracil (PTU), potassium iodide (SSKI), and atenolol in the preoperative period. A 42-year-old female with history of migraines presented to her gynecologist with a 3-week history of lower abdominal cramping, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abnormal vaginal bleeding. She also endorsed a 6-pound weight loss, intermittent tachycardia, exertional dyspnea, and increased anxiety. Pregnancy test was positive, and ultrasound was concerning for GTD. Laboratory work up was significant for HCG 797,747 mIU/mL (&lt; 5mlU/mL), TSH &lt;0.005 mIU/mL (0.4-4.0 mlU/mL), Free T4 3.09 ng/dL (0.9-1.9 ng/dL), and Free T3 11.48 pg/dL (1.76-3.78 pg/dL). The patient was admitted to the hospital and started on PTU 100 mg Q6H, SSKI 200 mg TID following the first dose of PTU, and atenolol 25 mg daily. She underwent an uncomplicated D & C the next day. On post-op day 1, HCG decreased to 195,338 mIU/mL and Free T4 to 2.39 ng/dL. The patient was discharged on the aforementioned doses of PTU and atenolol. One-week follow-up labs showed HCG 8,917 mIU/mL and Free T4 1.22 ng/dL. Surgical pathology confirmed a complete hydatidiform mole. PTU was decreased to 50 mg TID. On post-op day 14, HCG had risen to 15,395 mIU/mL with onset of nausea and vomiting. Repeat Free T4 remained within reference range. Patient was taken back to surgery for a laparoscopic total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy. Pathology confirmed an invasive hydatidiform mole. Two-week follow-up lab work showed HCG 155 mIU/mL, TSH 1.5 mIU/mL, and Free T4 1.19 ng/dL. PTU and atenolol were then discontinued. The development of hyperthyroidism in molar pregnancy is largely influenced by the level of HCG and usually resolves with treatment of GTD (1). However, it’s crucial to control thyrotoxicosis to avoid perioperative complications. This case also highlights the importance of monitoring HCG levels following a complete molar pregnancy due to an increased risk for invasive neoplasm. 1. Walkington, L et al. “Hyperthyroidism and human chorionic gonadotrophin production in gestational trophoblastic disease.” British journal of cancer vol. 104,11 (2011): 1665-9. doi:10.1038/bjc.2011.139


2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 1159
Author(s):  
Megavath Motilal ◽  
Vijaya Rama Raju Nadakuditi ◽  
Alla Gopala Krishna Gokhale ◽  
Sudhakar Koneru ◽  
Manoj Kumar Moharana ◽  
...  

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) persisting after mitral valve surgery reduces survival due to heart failure and thrombo-embolisms and impairs quality of life. Restoration of the sinus rhythm might lead to a lower incidence of thrombo-embolism and valve-related complications in the postoperative period.Methods: This non-randomized prospective study was carried out between period April 2015 to December 2018 in the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Government General hospital, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India. A total of 80 patients underwent mitral valve replacement during the study period. 50 patients out of these were with atrial fibrillation and were part of this study, who underwent mitral valve replacement.Results: All fifty patients were in atrial fibrillation based on clinical examination and the echocardiogram. 13 patients preoperatively were in atrial fibrillation with fast ventricular rate. These patients were placed on antiarrhythmic drugs to control the ventricular rate prior to mitral valve replacement. After surgery twenty out of fifty (40%) patients reverted to NSR and maintained the same rhythm till the 6 months of follow-up. Twenty-nine (58%) patients continued in atrial fibrillation after surgery.Conclusions: The results of the present study showed that preoperative atrial rhythm strongly determines postoperative rhythm. In view of the promising results of combined mitral valve and anti-atrial fibrillation surgery, the inescapable conclusion is that the anti-arrhythmic procedure should be offered routinely to all patients with a history of preoperative AF.


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