Down syndrome with Graves' disease: A lesser thyroid association

Abstract

Down syndrome is a common cause of mental retardation in pediatric population. These individuals also have increased prevalence of both endocrine and nonendocrine autoimmune disorders with thyroid disorder being the most common endocrine disorder reported. Autoimmune disorders in these patients are associated with early presentation. Hypothyroidism is the most common autoimmune thyroid disease while Graves' disease is rare in patients of Down syndrome. We hereby present a case of Graves' disease in a patient with Down syndrome that clinically presented with symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Early definitive treatment is recommended in view of challenges of compliance to treatment in these mentally challenged individuals.