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Factitious hyperthyroidism

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Thyroid gland
Thyroid gland

Alternative Names    Return to top

Factitious thyrotoxicosis; thyrotoxicosis factitia; thyrotoxicosis medicamentosa

Definition    Return to top

Factitious hyperthyroidism is higher than normal thyroid hormone levels that occur from taking too much thyroid hormone medication.

Causes    Return to top

The thyroid gland produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). In most cases of hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland itself produces too much of these hormones.

However, hyperthyroidism can also be caused by taking too much thyroid hormone medication for hypothyroidism. This is called factitious hyperthyroidism. When this occurs because the prescribed dose of hormone medication is too high, it is called iatrogenic, or "doctor-induced," hyperthyroidism.

Factitious hyperthyroidism can also occur when a patient intentionally takes too much thyroid hormone, such as in people:

Children may take thyroid hormone pills accidentally.

In rare cases, factitious hyperthyroidism is caused by eating meat contaminated with thyroid gland tissue.

Symptoms    Return to top

The symptoms of factitious hyperthyroidism are the same as those of hyperthyroidism caused by the thyroid gland, with these exceptions:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

The following test results may indicate factitious hyperthyroidism:

Treatment    Return to top

You must stop taking thyroid hormone. If it is medically necessary, the dose must be reduced.

You should be re-evaluated in 2 - 4 weeks to be sure that the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism are gone. This also helps to confirm the diagnosis.

People with Munchausen syndrome will need psychiatric treatment and follow-up.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Factitious hyperthyroidism will clear up on its own when you stop taking or lower the dose of thyroid hormone.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When factitious hyperthyroidism lasts a long time, patients are at risk for the same complications of untreated or improperly treated hyperthyroidism caused by the thyroid gland.

These complications include:

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Contact your health care provider if you experience any of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Prevention    Return to top

Thyroid hormone should be taken only by prescription and under the supervision of a licensed physician.

Update Date: 6/17/2008

Updated by: Elizabeth H. Holt, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Yale University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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