Dysphagia as a primary manifestation of hyperthyroidism: A case report

Guldiken B., Guldiken S., Turgut N., Yuce M., Arikan E., Tugrul A.

ACTA CLINICA BELGICA, vol.61, no.1, pp.35-37, 2006 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 61 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2006
  • Doi Number: 10.1179/acb.2006.007
  • Journal Name: ACTA CLINICA BELGICA
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.35-37
  • Keywords: hyperthyroidism, dysphagia, myopathy, THYROTOXICOSIS
  • Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Affiliated: No

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.