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Reversible jaundice in primary biliary cirrhosis due to hyperthyroidism
N P Thompson1, S Leader, C P Jamieson
1University Department of Medicine, Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust, London, England.
Gastroenterology
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Graves' disease can cause severe liver function deterioration and jaundice in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Treating hyperthyroidism reversed these liver issues, a link not previously documented.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Endocrinology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease.
- Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder causing hyperthyroidism.
- Liver function can be affected by various systemic conditions.
Observation:
- A patient with PBC experienced rapid liver function decline and jaundice.
- Investigations ruled out heart failure and biliary obstruction as causes.
- The patient developed Graves' disease concurrently with liver deterioration.
Findings:
- Hyperthyroidism from Graves' disease was identified as the cause of liver dysfunction.
- Treatment of hyperthyroidism led to complete reversal of jaundice.
- Bilirubin levels significantly decreased from 244 to 16 mumol/L.
Implications:
- This case highlights a novel association between hyperthyroidism and liver function decline in PBC.
- Endocrine evaluation is crucial in PBC patients with unexplained liver deterioration.
- Understanding this link may improve patient management and outcomes.