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Xanthoderma: an unusual presentation of hypothyroidism
M A al-Jubouri1, E J Coombes, R M Young
1Department of Chemical Pathology, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Cosham, Portsmouth.
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|September 1, 1994
Summary
A young woman experienced yellow skin due to hypercarotenaemia. This rare symptom was linked to primary hypothyroidism, which was successfully treated with thyroxine replacement therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Biochemistry
- Dermatology
Background:
- Investigating the biochemical basis of skin discoloration.
- Exploring rare presenting symptoms of endocrine disorders.
Observation:
- A young woman presented with progressive, six-month history of yellow skin.
- Initial liver function tests prompted further biochemical investigations.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of hypercarotenaemia confirmed as the cause of yellow skin.
- Underlying primary hypothyroidism identified through biochemical abnormalities.
- Thyroxine replacement therapy normalized biochemical markers and skin color.
Implications:
- Highlights the diagnostic value of chemical pathology in unexplained symptoms.
- Suggests hypothyroidism can manifest with unusual dermatological signs.
- Underscores the importance of comprehensive biochemical workup for hypercarotenaemia.