[Hashimoto's thyroiditis and myoclonic encephalopathy. Pathogenic hypothesis]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Immunology

Background:

• Hashimoto thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland.
• Neurological manifestations associated with autoimmune thyroid disease are rare but recognized.
• This case highlights a potential link between thyroid dysfunction and severe neurological symptoms.

Observation:

• A 49-year-old female with Hashimoto thyroiditis developed a two-year history of neurological symptoms.
• Symptoms included tonic-clonic seizures, myoclonic seizures, confusional states, and transient postictal aphasia.
• A correlation was observed between the patient's clinical status and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.

Findings:

• Neurological events resolved completely following the normalization of thyroid function.
• The study suggests a rare association between Hashimoto thyroiditis and myoclonic encephalopathy.
• Potential pathogenesis involves autoimmune mechanisms, possibly vasculitis, and non-endocrine central effects.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering thyroid function in patients presenting with unexplained neurological disorders.
• Early diagnosis and management of thyroid dysfunction may prevent or reverse neurological sequelae.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking autoimmune thyroid disease and encephalopathy.