[Intestinal pseudoobstruction in hypothyroidism]

Just as gastrointestinal functional diseases affect the thyroid, so thyroid disfunction affects the structure and function of almost all parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Hypothyroidism has frequently been associated with various gastrointestinal manifestations, including constipation, bloating, flatulence, atrophic gastritis, ileus, atony and dilatation of the oesophagus, stomach, gallbladder, small intestine and colon. Characteristic intestinal hypomotility in a severe hypothyroidism may progress to intestinal pseudoobstruction, paralytic ileus and megacolon. These rare but potentially serious complications must be recognized and treated promptly with adequate doses of thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The case history of a 64-year-old woman with hypothyroidism and intestinal pseudoobstruction is described.