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[Transient dementia during hyperthyroidism of painless thyroiditis. A case report]
Yuichiro Ii1, Takayuki Ohira, Yugo Narita
1Department of Neurology, Mie University School of Medicine.
Rinsho Shinkeigaku = Clinical Neurology
|September 25, 2003
Summary
Painless thyroiditis can cause temporary dementia and behavioral changes in older adults. Prompt diagnosis and monitoring can lead to full recovery of cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid, can manifest with diverse neurological symptoms.
- Painless thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid gland.
Observation:
- A 71-year-old woman presented with transient dementia and abnormal behavior.
- Clinical examination revealed no goiter or thyroid pain, but neurological assessment indicated mild dementia.
Findings:
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were low, with elevated free triiodothyronine and free thyroxine.
- Brain imaging (SPECT) showed reduced cerebral blood flow in frontotemporal regions.
- The patient's condition resolved spontaneously as thyroid function normalized.
Implications:
- This case highlights hyperthyroidism from painless thyroiditis as a potential reversible cause of dementia-like symptoms.
- It underscores the importance of considering endocrine disorders in the differential diagnosis of cognitive impairment.
- Early recognition and management can prevent long-term neurological sequelae.