Steroid-Responsive Encephalopathy Associated With Autoimmune Thyroiditis Presenting With Parkinsonism

Cureus. 2024 Mar 14;16(3):e56184. doi: 10.7759/cureus.56184. eCollection 2024 Mar.

Abstract

Steroid-responsive encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroiditis (SREAT) is a rare condition defined as encephalopathy with a positive antithyroid antibody. We report the case of a 52-year-old woman who presented with Parkinsonism associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. A few similar cases have been reported. Our patient responded well to corticosteroids with a significant reduction in symptoms. Diagnosis can pose a significant challenge in SREAT cases because of its variable clinical presentation. Therefore, we recommend evaluating thyroid function and thyroid autoantibodies in the context of acute and subacute encephalopathy. In the elderly population, SREAT, as a cause of Parkinsonism, should not be forgotten because of its simple treatment and significant improvements in neurological symptoms.

Keywords: ataxia; autoimmune thyroiditis; hashimoto's thyroiditis; parkinsonism; steroid‐responsive encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroiditis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports