Disordered oesophageal motility in thyrotoxic myopathy

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Gastroenterology
• Neuromuscular Disorders

Background:

• Dysphagia is rarely a symptom of thyrotoxic myopathy.
• When present, dysphagia typically accompanies other bulbar weakness signs like dysarthria and nasal regurgitation.

Observation:

• A case of thyrotoxicosis is presented where the primary symptom was dysphagia.
• This dysphagia was linked to reduced esophageal motility.
• Significant hypercalcemia was also noted in the patient.

Findings:

• The dysphagia was directly attributed to diminished esophageal motility.
• Both the dysphagia and hypercalcemia were rapidly resolved after initiating treatment for thyrotoxicosis.

Implications:

• This case highlights an unusual presentation of thyrotoxic myopathy.
• It suggests that esophageal motility disturbances and hypercalcemia should be considered in thyrotoxicosis patients with dysphagia.
• Effective treatment of the underlying thyroid condition can reverse these symptoms.