What is the pathophysiology of myxedema?
What is the pathophysiology of myxedema?
Pathophysiology. Myxedema describes a specific form of cutaneous and dermal edema secondary to increased deposition of connective tissue components. The connective fibres are separated by an increased amount of protein and mucopolysaccharides.
What is myxedema coma and how is it treated?
A myxedema coma requires immediate admission to a hospital. Treatment involves administering thyroid hormone replacement medication into a vein. Antibiotics, steroid treatment, and breathing support may be necessary also.
What is myxedema characterized by?
Myxedema is a condition marked by thickening and swelling of the skin caused by insufficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. The function of thyroid hormones is to regulate your metabolism.
Why does myxedema cause pleural effusion?
It is postulated that hypothyroidism causes an increase in capillary permeability which is followed by the escape of protein-rich fluid into the extravascular space, causing effusions. Such effusions need frequent drainage, as in our case, which may delay weaning from the ventilator.
Is myxedema coma an emergency?
Myxedema coma is defined as severe hypothyroidism leading to decreased mental status, hypothermia, and other symptoms related to slowing of function in multiple organs. It is a medical emergency with a high mortality rate.
How do you prevent myxedema coma?
How to prevent myxedema coma:
- Manage your low thyroid. Follow-up with your healthcare provider or endocrinologist regularly to make sure your thyroid levels are in a healthy range.
- Keep yourself warm. Especially during the winter months. Being exposed to the cold may increase your risk for myxedema coma.
Why is hydrocortisone given in myxedema coma?
Because of the possibility of secondary hypothyroidism and associated hypopituitarism, hydrocortisone should be administered until adrenal insufficiency has been ruled out. Hydrocortisone should be administered intravenously at a dosage of 100 mg every eight hours.
Who is most at risk for myxedema coma?
Hypothyroidism is common, affecting 5-10% of the population. Myxedema coma is a rare medical condition that is the extreme manifestation of severe hypothyroidism. This occurs most frequently in the elderly and in the winter and is usually triggered by stressful events like infections and myocardial infarction.
Should I go to the hospital for my thyroid?
When to Go to the ER Whenever thyroid storm is suspected, you must go to the emergency room immediately. Thyroid storm requires immediate treatment, as it is life-threatening and can develop and worsen quickly.
Why does hypothyroidism cause myxedema?
Myxedema (Adult hypothyroidism) is caused by an accumulation of tissue products, such as glycosaminoglycans, in the skin. Myxedema is almost always a result of hypothyroidism. Specific causes of hypothyroidism that can lead to myxedema include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, thyroidectomy (surgical removal of the thyroid), and Graves’ disease.
What are the symptoms of myxedema?
The body temperature is usually abnormally low ( hypothermia ),the core temperature may be as low as 80 F (26.6 C);
Why does ketoacidosis cause coma?
If the acid level of the blood becomes extreme, ketoacidosis can cause falling blood pressure, coma and death. Ketoacidosis is always accompanied by dehydration, which is caused by high levels of glucose in the blood. Glucose builds up in the blood if there is not enough insulin to move glucose into your cells.
