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Thyroid storm

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Thyroid gland
Thyroid gland

Alternative Names    Return to top

Thyrotoxic storm; Hyperthyroid storm

Definition    Return to top

Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition that develops in cases of untreated thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism).

Causes    Return to top

Thyroid storm results from untreated hyperthyroidism. It is usually brought on by a stress such as trauma or infection.

Symptoms    Return to top

Symptoms are severe and may include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Blood tests are done to evaluate thyroid function.

Possible Complications    Return to top

Congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema can develop rapidly and lead to death.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

This is an emergency condition. Call 911 or another emergency number if you have hyperthyroidism and experience these symptoms.

References    Return to top

AACE Thyroid Task Force. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice for the Evaluation and Treatment of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. Endocr Pract. 2002;8(6):459.

Ladenson P, Kim M. Thyroid. In: Goldman L and Ausiello D, eds. Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa:Saunders; 2007:chap 244.

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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