Primary Hypothyroidism Presenting as Cardiac Tamponade.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder.
• Pericardial effusion is a known complication of hypothyroidism.
• Cardiac tamponade is a rare but severe complication of hypothyroidism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case series of patients with hypothyroidism presenting as cardiac tamponade.
• To highlight the importance of suspecting hypothyroidism in patients with cardiac tamponade and bradycardia.
• To emphasize the need for early diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism to prevent severe complications.

Main Methods:

• Case series of two patients presenting with shortness of breath, abdominal distension, and generalized edema.
• Diagnosis of cardiac tamponade confirmed at presentation.
• Diagnosis of hypothyroidism established.
• Management included urgent pericardiocentesis, intermittent pericardial effusion drainage, and thyroxine replacement therapy.

Main Results:

• Both patients presented with cardiac tamponade and were diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
• Patients responded well to pericardiocentesis and thyroxine replacement therapy.
• The case series underscores the potential for hypothyroidism to manifest as cardiac tamponade.

Conclusions:

• Cardiac tamponade, especially with bradycardia, should raise suspicion for underlying hypothyroidism.
• Early recognition and management of hypothyroidism are vital to prevent potentially fatal complications like cardiac tamponade.