Dysphagia as a primary manifestation of hyperthyroidism: a case report

Acta Clin Belg. 2006 Jan-Feb;61(1):35-7. doi: 10.1179/acb.2006.007.

Abstract

Myopathy effecting mainly skeletal muscles of the limbs are frequently seen in hyperthyroidism. Rarely bulbar muscles may also be involved, causing dysphagia, nasal speech, and aspiration. We report a 70-year-old woman with severe dysphagia and aspiration pneumonia. Clinical examination and laboratory tests showed an underlying Graves' disease. Her dysphagia improved dramatically by antithyroid therapy. Considering its excellent response to medical therapy, hyperthyroidism--being a very rare factor - is well-worth to remember for the unexplained dysphagia cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antithyroid Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Deglutition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Graves Disease / diagnosis*
  • Graves Disease / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hyperparathyroidism / diagnosis
  • Hyperparathyroidism / drug therapy
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Thyroid Function Tests
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antithyroid Agents