A rare clinical scenario of hypothyroid-induced rhabdomyolysis

Abstract

Muscle involvement is common in hypothyroidism and is seen in nearly 80% of the cases. However, rhabdomyolysis is a rare manifestation and is usually triggered by precipitating factors such as exercise, statins, and toxins. We describe the case of a 58-year-old woman with de novo hypothyroidism presenting with severe rhabdomyolysis requiring hemodialysis. A 58-year-old diabetic and hypertensive female was presented at our tertiary care center with symptoms of generalized weakness, difficulty in walking, and decreased urine output. Her blood investigations showed elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK), renal parameters, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels suggestive of autoimmune thyroiditis with rhabdomyolysis. She was treated with thyroid hormone supplementation and hemodialysis. The patient recovered gradually with normalization of renal parameters. Although muscle involvement is common in hypothyroidism, rhabdomyolysis is a rare manifestation. Diagnosis is established by demonstrating elevated CPK and TSH levels. Management consists of hydration and thyroid hormone supplementation. Hemodialysis is required in severe cases with established acute kidney injury.

Keywords

• creatine phosphokinase
• hemodialysis
• hypothyroidism
• rhabdomyolysis