Abstract
Thyroid storm is a rare endocrine emergency characterized by dysfunction of multiple organ systems. Thyroid storm is more common in Graves' disease and can be precipitated by surgery, trauma, infection, metabolic abnormalities, iodine load, and parturition. We present a diagnostically challenging case of thyroid storm precipitated by radioiodine therapy and accompanied by bradycardia, a rare but life-threatening complication related to treatment for hyperthyroidism.
Highlights
Thyroid storm is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition induced by an excessive release of thyroid hormones
We present a case of thyroid storm precipitated by radioiodine therapy for hyperthyroidism and accompanied by bradycardia, a manifestation rarely observed in thyroid storm
The incidence of thyroid storm among patients with hyperthyroidism is estimated at 1% to 2% [1]
Summary
Thyroid storm is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition induced by an excessive release of thyroid hormones. Most cases of thyroid storm occur after a precipitating event, intercurrent illness, or discontinuation of antithyroid medication. Radioiodine therapy for hyperthyroidism induces thyroiditis and subsequent fibrosis of the thyroid gland. The destruction of follicular cells within the thyroid gland results in the rapid release of stored thyroid hormone into the circulation, which can serve as a precipitating event for thyroid storm in a very small percentage of patients. The most important determinates of survival in life-threatening thyroid storm are early recognition and institution of appropriate therapy. We present a case of thyroid storm precipitated by radioiodine therapy for hyperthyroidism and accompanied by bradycardia, a manifestation rarely observed in thyroid storm
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