Publication Date
1-1-2021
Journal
AACE Clinical Case Reports
DOI
10.1016/j.aace.2021.06.011
PMID
34250225
PMCID
PMC8253658
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
7-3-2021
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, thyroid, thyroid storm, NR, normal range; T3, triiodothyronine; T4, thyroxine
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: A thyroid storm is a severe exacerbation of thyrotoxicosis that can cause significant morbidity and mortality. The emergence of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that originated in Wuhan, China, has become a worldwide pandemic. We present the first documented case of thyroid storm (as defined by the Burch-Wartofsky criteria) in a patient with COVID-19.
METHODS: Laboratory and diagnostic studies, including thyroid function tests, thyroid antibody testing, SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal polymerase chain reaction testing, and thyroid ultrasound were performed.
RESULTS: A 25-year-old woman presented to the hospital with dry cough, dyspnea, palpitations, weight loss, diarrhea, and anxiety. Physical examination revealed exophthalmos with proptosis and chemosis, tachycardia, diffusely enlarged goiter with bruit, and fine tremor. Laboratory results demonstrated a thyroid-stimulating hormone level of
CONCLUSION: Thyroid storms are one of the more prevalent endocrine emergencies and are often precipitated by acute events including infections. Patients with thyroid storms may have concomitant SARS-CoV-2 infection that could influence the clinical course and severity of the disease. In patients with symptoms of thyrotoxicosis and respiratory symptoms, clinicians should consider performing a COVID-19 test.
Included in
Biochemical Phenomena, Metabolism, and Nutrition Commons, Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology Commons, COVID-19 Commons, Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Commons, Epidemiology Commons, Internal Medicine Commons