Thyrotoxicosis Presenting as Unilateral Drop Foot

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Muscle Physiology

Background:

• Hyperthyroidism can manifest with various neuromuscular disorders, including ophthalmopathy, periodic paralysis, and thyrotoxic myopathy.
• Thyrotoxic myopathy, a known complication of hyperthyroidism, typically presents with proximal muscle weakness.

Observation:

• A unique case of thyrotoxic myopathy presenting as unilateral drop foot is described.
• Histopathological analysis of the affected muscle revealed fiber size variation, inflammation, and predominantly type 1 fiber atrophy.

Findings:

• Medical treatment with propylthiouracil effectively resolved the unilateral drop foot.
• The patient experienced a complete clinical improvement following treatment for hyperthyroidism.

Implications:

• This case expands the known clinical spectrum of thyrotoxic myopathy.
• Unilateral drop foot should be considered a potential, albeit unusual, presentation of thyrotoxicosis.
• Early diagnosis and treatment of hyperthyroidism are crucial for managing associated neuromuscular complications.