Hyperthyroidism NCLEX Questions

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Questions and Answers

A patient presents with heat intolerance, anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss. Which of the following conditions is most likely indicated by these symptoms?

  • Hypothyroidism
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Subacute thyroiditis
  • Hyperthyroidism (correct)

A patient with hyperthyroidism is prescribed propranolol (Inderal). What is the primary purpose of this medication in managing hyperthyroidism?

  • To destroy the thyroid gland
  • To alleviate symptoms like tachycardia and tremors (correct)
  • To increase iodine uptake by the thyroid gland
  • To reduce thyroid hormone production

A patient with suspected hyperthyroidism has a low TSH level and elevated serum T3 and T4. Which diagnostic test would best help determine the etiology of the hyperthyroidism?

  • Radioactive iodine uptake (correct)
  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
  • Serum antinuclear antibody (ANA)
  • Complete blood count (CBC)

Which of the following clinical manifestations is least likely to be observed in a patient with hyperthyroidism resulting from toxic multinodular goiter?

<p>Exophthalmos (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is admitted with a suspected thyroid storm. Which assessment finding would be least likely in this condition?

<p>Severe bradycardia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with Graves' disease is being treated with methimazole. What is the most important instruction to provide regarding medication administration?

<p>Divide the daily dose into three doses. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is administered one hour after a thyroid drug for a patient experiencing thyroid storm?

<p>Lugol's solution (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism undergoes radioactive iodine therapy. What is the most likely long-term complication of this treatment?

<p>Hypothyroidism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which Esmolol helps manage thyroid storm?

<p>Blocking the effects of thyroid hormones (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following lab findings is least likely to be associated with hyperthyroidism?

<p>Hypocalcemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following signs and symptoms is most indicative of Graves' ophthalmopathy?

<p>Exophthalmos and infrequent blinking (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is most likely associated with the development of thyroid storm?

<p>Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism is scheduled to undergo radioactive iodine therapy after achieving a euthyroid state. What is the primary goal of achieving euthyroidism before this treatment?

<p>To prevent the occurrence of a thyroid storm during therapy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with exophthalmos, pretibial myxedema, and a goiter. Which condition is the MOST likely cause of these manifestations?

<p>Graves disease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide?

<p>Iodine deficiency (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism. The underlying issue is MOST likely related to:

<p>an autoimmune response targeting the thyroid gland (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with secondary hypothyroidism. Which of the following best describes the underlying issue?

<p>The pituitary gland is not secreting enough TSH. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following mechanisms can lead to decreased TSH production?

<p>Administration of dopamine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which treatment for hyperthyroidism does NOT address infiltrative ophthalmopathy or pretibial myxedema?

<p>Antithyroid drugs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Secondary hypothyroidism is characterized by:

<p>alterations in pituitary or hypothalamic functioning. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism behind the development of exophthalmos in Graves disease?

<p>Increased secretion of hyaluronic acid, orbital fat accumulation, inflammation, and edema of the orbital contents (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with suspected hyperthyroidism exhibits a rapid heart rate, weight loss, and anxiety. Which of the following assessment findings is MOST likely to support this diagnosis?

<p>Hypermetabolism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has undergone a thyroidectomy as treatment for hyperthyroidism. What potential complication should the nurse monitor for in the immediate postoperative period?

<p>Hypothyroidism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed methimazole for the treatment of hyperthyroidism. What is the primary mechanism of action of this medication?

<p>It inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with extreme fatigue, constipation, and cold intolerance. Which of the following conditions is MOST likely indicated by these symptoms?

<p>Hypothyroidism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following lab results is MOST indicative of hypothyroidism?

<p>Elevated TSH, Low Free T4 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism also presents with hyponatremia. During the management of myxedema coma, what fluid should be considered if the hyponatremia is severe?

<p>3% Normal Saline (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with known hypothyroidism is admitted with altered mental status, hypothermia, and severe bradycardia. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial intervention?

<p>Administer IV levothyroxine and hydrocortisone (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism is started on levothyroxine. What is the MOST important instruction to provide regarding medication administration?

<p>Take the medication on an empty stomach, separate from other medications (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following signs and symptoms differentiate hypothyroidism from hyperthyroidism?

<p>Weight gain (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A female patient with hypothyroidism is planning to become pregnant. What potential complication related to her condition should the healthcare provider discuss with her?

<p>Increased risk of abortion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with myxedema coma is being treated with IV levothyroxine and requires mechanical ventilation. What is the rationale for cautious rewarming with blankets?

<p>To avoid circulatory collapse. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with Graves' disease is experiencing exophthalmos. What underlying mechanism primarily contributes to this clinical manifestation?

<p>Autoantibodies stimulating fibroblast activity and hyaluronic acid secretion in the orbital tissues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with suspected primary hypothyroidism, which of the following sets of lab results would MOST strongly support the diagnosis?

<p>Elevated TSH, low free T4 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with secondary hypothyroidism. Which of the following is the MOST likely underlying cause?

<p>Pituitary tumor compressing thyrotrophs. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with pretibial myxedema. Which condition is MOST likely associated with this finding?

<p>Graves' disease (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary difference between primary and secondary hypothyroidism?

<p>Primary hypothyroidism involves dysfunction of the thyroid gland itself, while secondary hypothyroidism results from pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is taking methimazole for Graves' disease. What mechanism underpins its therapeutic effect?

<p>Inhibiting thyroid hormone synthesis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism is experiencing ophthalmopathy. Which treatment addresses the underlying cause of hyperthyroidism but does not reverse the ophthalmopathy?

<p>Radioactive iodine therapy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is treated for hyperthyroidism. Which assessment finding indicates that the treatment has been effective?

<p>Decreased anxiety and improved sleep patterns (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of hyperthyroidism has undergone radioactive iodine treatment. Years later, they present with symptoms of hypothyroidism. What is the most likely cause of their current condition?

<p>Destruction of thyroid tissue by radioactive iodine. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism reports taking their levothyroxine daily but continues to experience fatigue. Which of the following factors should be evaluated first?

<p>Potential drug interactions affecting levothyroxine absorption. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with myxedema coma is being treated with IV levothyroxine and hydrocortisone. What is the rationale for administering hydrocortisone in addition to levothyroxine?

<p>To prevent adrenal crisis due to potential coexisting adrenal insufficiency. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with long-standing, untreated hypothyroidism is likely to develop which hematological abnormality?

<p>Normochromic, normocytic anemia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When managing a patient in myxedema coma with severe hyponatremia, which of the following interventions is MOST appropriate after initiating fluid restriction?

<p>Infusing 3% hypertonic saline solution. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism is started on levothyroxine. Which assessment finding would warrant an immediate reduction in the levothyroxine dosage?

<p>Development of chest pain and palpitations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism is prescribed methimazole (Tapazole). What laboratory value needs to be monitored most closely?

<p>Complete blood count (CBC) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism is being treated with levothyroxine. Which statement indicates the patient needs further teaching regarding their medication?

<p>&quot;I can take my calcium supplement at the same time as my levothyroxine to help my bones.&quot; (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with Graves' disease is experiencing persistent atrial fibrillation despite being on antithyroid medications. Which intervention is most appropriate?

<p>Initiation of amiodarone therapy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism presents for a follow-up appointment. Lab results show an elevated TSH and a low free T4. Which of the following nursing interventions is MOST appropriate?

<p>Assess the patient's adherence to the levothyroxine regimen and adjust the dosage as prescribed. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism develops eye pain, proptosis, and diplopia. Which intervention should be prioritized?

<p>Initiation of high-dose oral corticosteroids (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with hyperthyroidism, which of the following signs and symptoms would be most indicative of thyroid storm?

<p>Fever, marked tachycardia, and altered mental status (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After undergoing radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy for hyperthyroidism, what is the most important education point for a patient regarding radiation safety at home?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST likely long-term complication of radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy for hyperthyroidism

<p>Permanent hypothyroidism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism is being treated with propylthiouracil (PTU) during the first trimester of pregnancy. What is the primary reason for choosing PTU over methimazole in this situation?

<p>PTU is less likely to cross the placenta and cause fetal harm than methimazole. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hyperthyroidism is scheduled for a subtotal thyroidectomy. Which medication is typically prescribed preoperatively to achieve a euthyroid state and minimize the risk of thyroid storm during surgery?

<p>Potassium iodide (SSKI) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient experiencing a thyroid storm exhibits severe hyperthermia. Which of the following interventions is MOST critical in managing this manifestation?

<p>Applying cooling blankets and ice packs to reduce the patient's body temperature. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient undergoing treatment for thyroid storm, why is it important to administer iodide solutions (such as Lugol's solution) one hour after antithyroid medications?

<p>To minimize the risk of iodine-induced thyrotoxicosis (Jod-Basedow effect) by first blocking hormone synthesis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of Graves' disease is admitted with suspected thyroid storm following a motor vehicle accident. Besides pharmacological interventions, what is an essential nursing intervention for this patient?

<p>Providing a calm, quiet environment to minimize agitation and reduce cardiac demands. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient in thyroid storm is prescribed Esmolol. What is the primary rationale for using this medication in this situation?

<p>To counteract the effects of excessive thyroid hormones on the cardiovascular system, such as tachycardia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism is started on levothyroxine. After several months, the patient reports persistent fatigue and constipation despite taking the medication as prescribed. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step?

<p>Assess the patient's adherence to the medication regimen and evaluate TSH levels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with hypothyroidism is diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency. How should the adrenal insufficiency be managed in relation to the hypothyroidism?

<p>Treat the adrenal insufficiency first with corticosteroids, followed by levothyroxine for the hypothyroidism. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. What is the primary pathophysiological mechanism underlying this condition?

<p>Autoimmune destruction of thyroid cells by lymphocytes and antibodies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide?

<p>Iodine deficiency. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Hyperthyroidism

Increased thyroid hormone levels, leading to hypermetabolism.

Thyrotoxicosis

Toxic condition due to hyperactivity of the thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism

Decreased thyroid hormone levels; resulting in slowed metabolic processes

Hashimoto Disease

Autoimmune cause of hypothyroidism where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

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Primary Hypothyroidism

Dysfunction originating in the thyroid gland itself.

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Secondary Hypothyroidism

Dysfunction caused by pituitary or hypothalamic issues, affecting TSH or TRH production.

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Graves disease

Most common cause of hyperthyroidism; an autoimmune disease with autoantibody development.

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Exophthalmos

Abnormal protrusion of the eyeball; can occur in hyperthyroidism, especially Graves disease.

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Atrial fibrillation (in hyperthyroidism)

Irregular, rapid heart rhythm originating in the atria; a symptom of hyperthyroidism.

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Exertional Dyspnea (in hyperthyroidism)

Difficulty breathing upon exertion; a symptom of hyperthyroidism.

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Hyperthyroidism Lab Values

Low TSH, elevated T3/T4/free thyroxine.

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Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test

Graves' disease shows high iodine uptake, thyroiditis shows low uptake.

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Beta-blockers for Hyperthyroidism

To manage tachycardia and tremors, common hyperthyroidism symptoms.

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Antithyroid Meds Dosing

Tapazole: Initial dose 30-60 mg daily, maintenance 5-15mg. PTU: Initial 300-600 mg/day, maintenance 100-150 mg/day.

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Toxic Multinodular Goiter

Several hyperfunctioning nodules that secrete thyroid hormone.

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Thyroid Storm

Life-threatening condition from excessive thyroid hormones, often triggered by stress.

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Thyroid Storm triggers

Trauma, infection, uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid supplement OD, and pregnancy.

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Thyroid Storm symptoms

Hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tachycardia, agitation, and GI upset.

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Thyroid Storm - Medications

Propylthiouracil or Methimazole to decrease thyroid hormone production.

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Thyroid Storm - Inhibit release

Lugol's solution or Sodium Iodide given one hour after antithyroid drugs.

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Thyroid storm - Beta-blockers

Esmolol with Hydrocortisone - decrease heart rate and block effects of thyroid hormone.

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US Hypothyroidism Cause

Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's) in iodine-sufficient regions.

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Hypothyroidism Etiology (US)

Most common causes include thyroidectomy, failure to take thyroid medication, or radioactive iodine treatment.

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Hypothyroidism: Common S&S

Fatigue, dry skin, LOC changes, cold intolerance, bradycardia, and weight gain.

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Hypothyroidism Labs

Elevated TSH and low free T4. T3 is not a reliable test.

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Hypothyroidism: Electrolytes & Blood

Hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, anemia, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia.

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Hypothyroidism Treatment

Levothyroxine (Synthroid).

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Myxedema Coma

Severe hypothyroidism leading to decreased mental status, hypothermia, and other systemic issues.

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Myxedema Coma: Initial Tx

Oxygen, fluid restriction/3% NS (for hyponatremia), D5W (for hypoglycemia), IV thyroid replacement.

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Myxedema Coma: Rewarming

Avoid rapid rewarming; use slow rewarming blankets. Hyperthermia blankets are contraindicated.

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Thyroid Hyperfunction

Increased thyroid gland activity

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Thyroid Hypofunction

Decreased thyroid gland activity.

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Secondary Thyroid Dysfunction

Conditions that cause changes in pituitary or hypothalamus function.

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Exophthalmos Cause

Increased secretion of hyaluronic acid, orbital fat accumulation, inflammation, and edema of the orbital contents.

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Diplopia

Double vision caused by eye muscle issues.

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Pretibial Myxedema

Swelling and skin changes, usually on the legs, in Graves' disease.

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Hypermetabolism

Elevated metabolism; increased use of bodily resources and energy.

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Hyperthyroidism: Psychological Symptoms

Anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia are common psychological manifestations.

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Hyperthyroidism: Skin & Hair Changes

Smooth, warm, and moist skin, along with fine/thin hair.

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Hyperreflexia in Hyperthyroidism

Hyperactive reflexes (DTRs)

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Graves Ophthalmopathy

Inflammation & bulging of the eyes.

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Radioactive Iodine Uptake Results

Radioactive iodine uptake will be high in Graves' disease and low in subacute thyroiditis.

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Toxic Multinodular Goiter vs. Graves

Symptoms develop slowly, and exophthalmos and pretibial myxedema do not occur.

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Hypothyroidism – S&S

Extreme fatigue, puffiness, coarse hair, cold intolerance.

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Hypothyroidism - Electrolytes/Blood

Hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, anemia, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia.

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Levothyroxine (Synthroid)

Mimics what the thyroid should be producing. Synthetic T4 that is converted to T3 in the body.

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Myxedema Coma - Initial Treatment

Oxygen, fluid restriction (if hyponatremic), D5W (if hypoglycemic), IV thyroid replacement, hydrocortisone if adrenal insufficiency.

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Study Notes

  • Alterations of thyroid function involve either hyperfunction or hypofunction of the thyroid.

Hyperthyroidism

  • Hyperthyroidism is the condition resulting from hyperfunction.
  • Thyrotoxicosis, Graves disease, hyperthyroidism from nodular thyroid disease and thyrotoxic crisis are examples of diseases that can arise from hyperthyroidism.
  • Signs of hyperthyroidism include thin hair and exophthalmos.
Hyperthyroidism and Graves Disease
  • Graves disease is a hyperthyroid condition and the most common cause of hyperactive thyroid.
  • Graves disease is an autoimmune disease which develops autoantibodies.
  • Clinical manifestations of Graves includes ophthalmopathy, a condition with some degree of manifestation.
  • Exophthalmos is the increased secretion of hyaluronic acid, orbital fat accumulation, inflammation, and edema of orbital contents.
  • Those with exophthalmos may experience double vision, also known as diplopia.
  • Pretibial myxedema, also known as Graves dermopathy includes leg swelling.
Hyperthyroidism Signs and Symptoms
  • Some signs and symptoms include hypermetabolism, heat intolerance, fatigue, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, manic behavior, restlessness, emotional liability, fine tremors and hyperreflexia deep tendon reflexes.
  • Additional signs and symptoms include resting tachycardia, palpitations, atrail fib, exertional dyspnea, increased appetite, weightloss, frequent bowel movements, velvety skin, thin hair, exophthalmos and lid lag.
  • Infrequent blinking can occur.
  • 20-40% of cases involve Graves Ophthalmopathy.
Hyperthyroidism Diagnostics and Labs
  • TSH < 3 uIU/L
  • Serum T3, T4 and free Thyroxine are elevated
  • ESR is elevated
  • Serum antinuclear antibody (ANA) is elevated
  • Hypercalcemia and anemia can occur
  • If etiology is unclear, radioactive iodine uptake is necessary.
  • High iodine uptake indicates Graves
  • Low iodine uptake indicates subacute thyroiditis (thyroid inflammation with low grade fever, dysphagia and elevated ESR).
Hyperthyroidism Management
  • Beta blockers can be used to treat tachycardia and tremors.
    • Propranolol (Inderal) 10mg PO
    • Metoprolol (Lopressor) 25mg PO
  • Antithyroid medications include:
    • Methimazole (Tapazole): initial dose of 30-60mg daily divided in 3 doses, maintenance dose of of 5-15mg PO
    • Propylthiouracil: initial dose of 300-600mg/day in four doses, maintenance dose of 100-150mg/day.
  • Radioactive iodine is used to destroy goiters and may take 3-4 months to become euthyroid, can result in hypothyroidism.
  • Thyroid surgery is not common, but can be used w/ pregnancy or suspected cancer.
Hyperthyroidism Resulting from Nodular Thyroid Disease
  • Toxic multinodular goiter involves several hyperfunctioning nodules secreting thyroid hormone.
  • Solitary toxic adenoma: only one nodule becomes hyperfunctioning.
  • Clinical manifestations are the same as hyperthyroidism but occur slowly.
  • Exophthalmos and pretibial myxedema do not occur.
  • Examination is performed for cancer.
  • Radioactive iodine, surgery or antithyroid drugs are administered.
Hyperthyroidism and Thyroid Storm
  • Thyrotoxic crisis is also known as thyroid storm.
  • It is a rare but life-threatening condition if left untreated for 48 hours.
  • Thyroid storm results from excessive stress and increased action of Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3).
  • Trauma, stress, infection, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, thyroid supplement overdose and pregnancy are predisposing factors.
  • Excess amounts of thyroid hormone are secreted from the thyroid gland.
Thyroid Storm Clinical Manifestations
  • Hyperthermia (100-105F)
  • Diaphoresis (4L/24H)
  • Marked Tachycardia (supraventricular)
  • Palpitations
  • Mental Changes (agitation, delirium, psychosis, stupor, coma)
  • GI disturbances (n/v, diarrhea)
  • Hyperglycemia
Thyroid Storm Treatment
  • Block Thyroid Hormone Synthesis:
    • Propylthiouracil (900-1200mg/d)
    • Methimazole (90-1200mg/d)
  • Inhibit Release of Thyroid Hormones, given 1 hour after thyroid drug administration
    • Lugol's solution 10gtts po TID
    • Sodium lodine 1 gram slow IV
  • Block effects of thyroid hormone (Beta-blockers)
    • Esmolol 40-80 mg Q6gr with Hydrocortisone 50 mg q6hr with taper dose
  • Surgery or treat with Radioactive iodine following euthyroid

Hypothyroidism

  • Hypothyroidism is the condition resulting from hypofunction.
  • Primary, secondary, subclinical, congenital hypothyroidism and thyroid carcinoma are examples of diseases that can arise from hypothyroidism.
  • In primary, the thyroid gland is not functioning
  • For secondary, the pituitary gland is not secreting enough TSH, resulting in hypothyroid (T3 + T4).
  • For tertiary, the hypothalamus isn't producing enough TRH, resulting in hypothyroid (T3 + T4).
  • Most common thyroid disease.
  • Women are more likely to have it then men.
  • Most common cause worldwide is iodine deficiency.
  • Most common cause in the US is autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's, autoimmune dysfunction of thyroid gland).
  • Additional causes are thyroidectomy, failure to take thyroid medication, radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism.
  • Signs of hypothyroidism include loss of hair.
Hypothyroidism Signs and Symptoms
  • Greatly decreased metabolism, loss of hair, coarse brittle hair, periorbital edema and puffy face are signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism.
  • Additional signs and symptoms include normal, enlarged or small thyroid, heart failure (bradycardia), constipation, cold intolerance, muscle weakness and edema of the extremities.
  • Further signs and symptoms include extreme fatigue, puffiness of face/eyes, hypoventilation, bradycardia, hypothermia, hypoglycemia, anorexia, decreased bowel sounds, constipation and weight gain (not morbid obesity).
  • Other symptoms include dry cracked skin, coarse brittle hair, brittle nails, cold intolerance, myxedema in extremities, periorbital edema, decreased deep tendon reflexes, parasthesia, enlarged tongue, hair loss and hoarseness.
  • Males may experience decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation.
  • They also may experience carpal tunnel bilaterally.
  • Abnormal menstruation can occur (amenorrhea, hypermennorrhea, menorrhagia)
  • Increases abortion risk.
Hypothyroidism Diagnostics and Labs
  • Elevated TSH (> 4 ulU/L)
  • Low or low normal T4 (free), not total (bound) T4
  • Decreased resin T3 uptake .
    • T3 is not a reliable test for hypothyroidism, there is increased conversion of T4 to T3 (compensatory mechanism).
  • Hypoglycemia can occur.
  • Hyponatremia can occur.
  • Anemia (normochromic, normocytic).
    • Can occur with RBC normal size and color
    • Hypocoagulable state (increased bleeding risk)
  • Hypertension (increased vascular resistance)
Hypothyroidism Management
  • Levothyroxine (Synthroid): T4
Myxedema Coma Management
  • Oxygen
  • Fluid restriction & 3% NS for severe hyponatremia
  • D5W for hypoglycemia
  • IV Thyroid replacement:
    • Levothyroxine (T4) one dose 300-500mcg IV the n 50-100 mcg daily
    • Alternative: Liothyronine sodium (Cytomel) (T3) 25-50 mcg IV every 4-6 hr
    • Another Alt: levothyroxine (T$) 200 mcg and Liothyronine Sodium (T3) 25 mg single dose
  • If Adrenal Insuff: hydrocortisone (Solu-Cortef) 100 mg IV bolus then 25-50 mg q 8hr; wanting to avoid rebound hyperadrenalism effects when rapid thyroid replacements are started
  • Slow rewarming blankets (hyperthermia blankets are contraindicated -> circulatory collapse)
  • Levothyroxine 100-200 mcg/d for life

Primary vs Secondary

  • Primary relates to dysfunction or disease of the thyroid gland.
    • Alters Thyroid hormone (TH) production
  • Secondary involves conditions that cause alterations in pituitary or hypothalamic functioning.
    • Alters TSH or thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) production.

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