Meeting abstract

https://doi.org/10.15836/ccar2019.65

Cardiac tamponade and hypothyroidism

Lujza Grueva ; University Clinic of Cardiology, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
Elena G. Nastevska ; University Clinic of Cardiology, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia

Abstract

Introduction: Hypothyroidism is one of the most common diseases in endocrinology, which can be diagnosed easily with the current diagnostic procedures and a typical clinical expression. One of the most frequent cardiological complication of hypothyroidism is the pericardial effusion, with incidence of 30-75%, while the heart tamponade is a very rare complication that requires urgent treatment.1
Case report: 60-year-old woman was admitted to the clinic of Cardiology in Skopje, dyspneic with a general malaise. During the physical exam the patient was with slower speech, dry skin and hair, brittle nails, bilateral periorbital edema. Vital signs: heart rate 85 beats per minute, blood pressure 180/100mmHg. 12-lead ECG findings showed low voltage and flattened T wave in all leads (Figure 1). During the echocardiography exam (Figure 2) was confirmed a large pericardial effusion with a compression on the right-sided cavities and a “swinging heart”, and pericardiocentesis was indicated. More than 1100ml of fluid
was evacuated and sent for further investigations. Laboratory findings showed advanced and untreated hypothyroidism (TSH >75.0 ulU/ml, free T4 <3.86 pmol/L; total T4 <12.9 nmol/L).
Conclusion: The amount of pericardial effusion (PE) in patients with hypothyroidism is correlated with the progress of the disease, and is very common in myxedema, but very rare in mild forms of hypothyroidism. In Macedonia, especially in the rural environments, patients with hypothyroidism are mostly undiagnosed on time, so the complications are more frequent. Effective and on time diagnose of PE is
crucial, because of the high risk of cardiac tamponade. Positive outcome and hemodynamic stability in most of the patients with hypothyroidism is achieved after the application of appropriate thyroxin treatment.

Keywords

hypothyroidism; pericardial effusion

Hrčak ID:

220588

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/220588

Publication date:

31.5.2019.

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