Hyperthyrodism Flashcards
What is primary hyperthyroidism characterized by?
An overactive thyroid gland producing excessive thyroid hormones, resulting in thyrotoxicosis.
It is marked by elevated levels of T3 and T4 with suppressed TSH.
autoimmune disorder for hyperthyroidism
Graves dies ease-TSH receptor antibodies stimulate the thyroid.
This leads to excess T3 and T4 production.
What are key features of Graves’ disease?
- Diffuse goitre
- Eye signs (exophthalmos)
- Pretibial myxoedema
What causes toxic multinodular goitre?
Autonomous nodules that secrete excess thyroid hormone.
Nodules independently produce thyroid hormones.
What are key features of toxic multinodular goitre?
More common in older adults; can cause overt hyperthyroidism.
What is thyroid storm?
A life-threatening emergency characterized by the acute exacerbation of hyperthyroidism.
Often triggered by stressors like surgery, trauma, or infection.
What are the risk factors for thyroid storm?
- Surgery
- Trauma
- Infection
List symptoms of thyroid storm.
- Restlessness and agitation
- Heart failure
- Profound tachycardia
- Fever
- Delirium
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Muscle wasting
What medications are used in the management of thyroid storm?
- IV propranolol
- Digoxin
- Propylthiouracil
- Prednisolone
- Supportive care
What is secondary hyperthyroidism?
A rare condition caused by excess thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), leading to overproduction of thyroid hormones.
What is the most common cause of secondary hyperthyroidism?
Pituitary adenoma.
A benign tumor in the pituitary gland that secretes excess TSH.
What are clinical features of a pituitary adenoma?
- Goiter
- Thyrotoxicosis
- Visual disturbances (e.g., bitemporal hemianopia)
What are the first-line medications for hyperthyroidism management?
- Carbimazole
- Propylthiouracil (PTU)
- Beta-Blockers (BBs)
What is the mechanism of action of Carbimazole?
Inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis.
Dosage is adjusted based on TFTs.
What is radioactive iodine (RAI) used for?
Destroys thyroid tissue; used for relapse or contraindications to surgery.
What are the risks associated with radioactive iodine (RAI)?
- Increased cancer risk under 40
- Can cause hypothyroidism
- Precautions during pregnancy and breastfeeding
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Sweaty skin
- Insomnia
- Increased appetite
- Heat intolerance
- Mood changes
- Chest pain
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Menstrual changes
What are the signs of hyperthyroidism?
- Goitre
- Tachycardia
- Tremors
- Eye signs (exophthalmos)
- Pretibial myxoedema
What investigations are used to diagnose hyperthyroidism?
- TFTs
- Thyroid antibodies
- USS Thyroid
- Radioiodine uptake test
What is the complication associated with hyperthyroidism?
Thyroid storm.
What is the management for thyroid storm?
- IV propranolol
- Digoxin
- Propylthiouracil
- Prednisolone
- Supportive care
True or False: Hyperthyroidism is characterized by a suppressed TSH level.
True
Fill in the blank: The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is _______.
Graves’ Disease
