Hyperthyroidism Flashcards
Define hyperthyroidism
Caused by an overactive thyroid gland causing an excess of thyroid hormone (T3 and T4)
Hyperthyroidism is most commonly affects which gender?
Women
Define thyrotoxicosis
Refers to an excess of thyroid hormone, having an overactive thyroid gland is not a prerequisite (e.g. consumption of thyroid hormone)
Name three primary causes of hyperthyroidism
Primary meaning it is caused by thyroid dysfunction
- Graves’ disease
- Toxic multinodular goitre
- Radiation
Name two secondary causes of hyperthyroidism
Secondary meaning it is not caused by thyroid dysfunction
- Drugs e.g. Lithium
- Gestational hyperthyroidism
What is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism
Graves’ disease
Describe the pathogenesis of Graves Disease
Caused by IgG antibodies to the TSH receptors found within the thyroid – known as TSHR-Ab
TSHR-Ab mimic the action of TSH causing excessive stimulation of the gland
What is the second most common cause of hyperthyroidism
Toxic multinodular goitre
Describe the pathogenesis of toxic multinodular goitre
Characterised by multiple nodules that develop on the thyroid gland develop that are capable of secreting thyroid hormone
Acts independently of feedback system and therefore results in the continuous production of excessive thyroid hormone
Name some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism
Goitre
Palpitations
Heat intolerance
Weight loss
Diarrhoea
Amenorrhoea
Reduced libido
Gynaecomastia (in men)
Fatigue
Name some of the signs of hyperthyroidism
- Goitre
- Sinus tachycardia/arrhythmias
- Hair loss
- Palmar erythema
- Tremor
- Thyroid bruit (Graves’)
- Myxoedema - deposition of mucopolysaccharides in the skin leading to swelling.
What is the other name given to thyroid storm
Thyrotoxic crisis
Define thyroid storm
Hypermetabolic state induced by excessive release of thyroid hormones
What are the triad of symptoms for thyroid storm
High blood pressure
High temperature
Tachycardia
How is the thyroid storm managed
Symptom control with IV propranolol
Reduced thyroid activity with PPU
Why is PPU the preferred treatment for thyroid storm
Preferred as it inhibits peripheral thyroxine conversion
What are the three unique features associated with Graves Disease
Diffuse goitre (without nodules)
Graves’ ophthalmopathy
Pretibial myxoedema
Features caused by the presence of TSH receptor antibodies