Health Encyclopedia

Thyrotoxic storm

Definition

Thyrotoxic storm is a life-threatening condition that develops in cases of untreated thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism).

Alternative Names

Thyroid storm

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Thyrotoxic storm results from untreated hyperthyroidism. It is usually brought on by an acute stress such as trauma or infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms are severe and may include:

Agitation
Change in alertness (consciousness)
Confusion
Diarrhea
Fever
Pounding heart (tachycardia)
Restlessness
Shaking
Sweating

Signs and tests

Vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure) show increased heart rate. The top number in a blood pressure reading may be high.

Blood tests are done to evaluate thyroid function.

Complications

Congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema can develop rapidly and lead to death.

Calling your health care provider

This is an emergency condition. Call 911 or other emergency number if you have hyperthyroidism and experience these symptoms.

References

AACE Thyroid Task Force. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice for the Evaluation and Treatment of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. Endocr Pract. 2002;8(6) 459.

Review Date:10/24/2007
Reviewed By:Robert Hurd, MD, Professor of Endocrinology, Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH, and physician in the Primary Care Clinic, Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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