[Rhabdomyolysis and hypothyroidism]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neurology
• Cardiology

Background:

• Hypothyroidism, particularly autoimmune Hashimoto disease, can present with diverse systemic manifestations.
• Rhabdomyolysis, characterized by muscle breakdown, is a rare but serious complication of untreated hypothyroidism.
• Cardiac dysfunction and carpal tunnel syndrome are also recognized associations with hypothyroidism.

Observation:

• A 29-year-old patient presented with a 3-month history of severe myalgias and asthenia.
• Initial investigations revealed muscle lysis and elevated transaminases.
• Further assessment identified severe hypothyroidism with anti-microsomal antibodies, carpal tunnel syndrome, and left ventricular systolic dysfunction.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with hypothyroidic rhabdomyolysis secondary to Hashimoto disease.
• Treatment involved hormonal thyroid substitution therapy.
• Significant improvement in muscular symptoms was observed, leading to complete recovery.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of recognizing rhabdomyolysis as a potential complication of hypothyroidism.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism can reverse severe muscular and cardiac manifestations.
• Early thyroid hormone replacement therapy is crucial for restoring muscle, cardiac, and overall metabolic function.