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Covert hypothyroidism presenting as a cardiovascular event

H J LeMar1, S G West, C R Garrett

  • 1Department of Medicine, Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado 80045.

The American Journal of Medicine
|November 11, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Covert hypothyroidism can mimic cardiovascular disease, presenting with elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels. Early diagnosis through thyroid function tests and treatment with thyroid hormone therapy resolves symptoms and CPK elevations.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Hypothyroidism often presents with classic symptoms, but can also manifest subtly.
  • Subtle hypothyroidism may present with cardiovascular symptoms and elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK).

Observation:

  • This study details six patients where hypothyroidism was suspected due to persistently elevated CPK levels.
  • These patients exhibited symptoms suggestive of cardiovascular disease without clear myocardial damage.

Findings:

  • Thyroid function tests confirmed hypothyroidism in all six patients.
  • Thyroid hormone replacement therapy led to the resolution of both clinical symptoms and elevated CPK levels.

Implications:

  • Persistently elevated CPK in patients with cardiovascular symptoms warrants consideration of underlying hypothyroidism.
  • Recognizing covert hypothyroidism is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, preventing unnecessary cardiac investigations.

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