Hypothyroidism: A Peculiar Presentation

Cureus. 2023 Dec 2;15(12):e49819. doi: 10.7759/cureus.49819. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

Hypothyroidism constitutes a prevalent pathology, with up to 80% of afflicted individuals displaying associated muscular symptoms. However, these symptoms rarely appear as the first or only manifestation of hypothyroidism. We report the case of a previously healthy 21-year-old man, diagnosed with hypothyroid myopathy after experiencing intense myalgias and cramps, which were relieved by oral administration of levothyroxine. This case demonstrates the significance of considering thyroid-related conditions when patients present muscular symptoms as these can represent the only or initial indicator of hypothyroidism. Timely thyroxine supplementation leads to the gradual resolution of most neuromuscular symptoms.

Keywords: clinical history; hypothyroidism; levothyroxine; myopathy; thyroid-stimulating hormone (tsh).

Publication types

  • Case Reports