Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

An Orthotopic Mouse Model of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma
Published on: April 17, 2013
Factitious thyrotoxicosis induced by mesotherapy: a case report.
Debora Lucia Seguro Danilovic1, Walter Bloise, Meyer Knobel
1Laboratório de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular (LIM 25), Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil.
Cosmetic mesotherapy can cause thyrotoxicosis (thyroid overactivity) due to ingredients like triiodothyroacetic acid. This case highlights a rare systemic adverse effect of this popular cosmetic procedure.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Mesotherapy involves cutaneous injections for cosmetic fat and cellulite reduction.
- Adverse events reported to date have been primarily local.
- This study investigates a rare systemic complication of mesotherapy.
Observation:
- A female patient developed thyrotoxicosis following cosmetic mesotherapy.
- The mesotherapy formulation contained triiodothyroacetic acid.
- Skin alterations including epidermal barrier disruption and vascular changes were noted.
Findings:
- The patient's thyrotoxicosis is attributed to systemic absorption of thyroid hormone metabolites from mesotherapy.
- Disturbances in type III deiodinase activity and fibroblast paracrine function may contribute.
- Co-injected vasoactive compounds might influence absorption and systemic effects.
Implications:
- This case represents the first report of factitious thyrotoxicosis induced by mesotherapy.
- Highlights the potential for systemic adverse effects from cosmetic mesotherapy.
- Raises awareness among practitioners and patients about risks associated with mesotherapy.
Related Concept Videos
Hyperthyroidism I: Introduction
Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology
Hyperthyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Graves' Disease I: Introduction
Hypothyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Synthesis and Regulation of Thyroid Hormones
Upon reaching the thyroid gland, TSH stimulates the follicular cells' active uptake of iodide ions from the blood. The ions diffuse to the apical surface of the cells and are oxidized to iodine. The iodine is then...