Myxedema coma

Definition

Myxedema coma is a severe, life-threatening form of hypothyroidism characterized by decreased mental status, hypothermia, and multiple organ dysfunction. It requires immediate medical intervention to prevent mortality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Myxedema coma is often precipitated by infections, medications, or cold exposure in patients with untreated or poorly managed hypothyroidism.
2. Symptoms include severe hypothermia, bradycardia, hypotension, and altered mental state ranging from confusion to coma.
3. The condition necessitates prompt treatment with intravenous thyroid hormone replacement and supportive care in an intensive care unit.
4. Common lab findings include hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, and elevated serum creatine phosphokinase levels.
5. Mortality rates for myxedema coma are high if not treated promptly; early recognition and intervention are critical.

Review Questions

• What are the common precipitating factors for myxedema coma?
• What are the hallmark symptoms of myxedema coma?
• Why is immediate medical intervention crucial for patients experiencing myxedema coma?

Related terms

Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones.

Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: Treatment involving synthetic thyroid hormones to manage hypothyroidism.

Bradycardia: A slower than normal heart rate typically seen in severe cases of hypothyroidism including myxedema coma.