[Thyrotoxic crisis]

Besides the typical and in this case severe signs of hyperthyroidism the thyrotoxic crisis is characterized by additional signs and symptoms such as fever, cardiac involvement (tachycardia, arrhythmia, heart failure) and central nervous impairment eventually leading to coma. Additional diseases and comorbidities impair the diagnostic process and may mask the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. If undiagnosed, this situation harbors a mortality of approximately 90%. The precise knowledge of typical (and atypical) symptoms is mandatory in order to rapidly recognize this situation and to initiate pharmacological treatment and/or surgery. An experienced endocrinologist should always be involved in this decision process.