Periorbital Oedema Associated with Hypothyroidism - A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Pituitary microadenomas are common (27% incidence).
• Hypothyroidism-induced periorbital edema (PO) is a rare but recognized etiological factor.

Observation:

• A 53-year-old patient presented with periorbital edema (PO).
• Initial dental consultation excluded infection as a cause.

Findings:

• Hematological and radiological investigations revealed pituitary microadenoma and elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
• Further follow-up determined that a disrupted drug regimen, leading to increased TSH, caused the PO, not the microadenoma itself.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the importance of medication adherence in managing hypothyroidism.
• Highlights the need to consider endocrine causes for periorbital edema, even with co-existing pituitary microadenoma.