Two Deadly Complications of Untreated Hypothyroidism: Sudden Cardiac Arrest and Acute Coronary Syndrome

Myxedema coma is a rare but life-threatening endocrinological emergency condition that may present with serious conditions such as sudden cardiac arrest or acute coronary syndrome. In this context, 2 cases are presented in this case report as examples of how deadly complications of myxedema coma can be prevented with rapid diagnosis and intervention. A 58-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency service with complaints of altered consciousness and speech and balance disorders. She was hypothermic at admission. Her electrocardiogram was compatible with complete atrioventricular block. The patient who developed cardiac arrest during the follow-up was intubated, and spontaneous circulation was restored after 28 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The patient’s thyroid function tests were compatible with hypothyroidism. The patient was diagnosed with myxedema coma, and treatment for myxedema coma was started. The patient was discharged after 40 days. A 55-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with chest pain. His electrocardiogram was compatible with first-degree atrioventricular block. There was ST segment elevation in D2, D3, and aVF derivations. The patient’s thyroid function tests were compatible with hypothyroidism. The patient was diagnosed with myxedema coma and was immediately started treatment. The patient was discharged after 18 days. Myxedema coma is rarely seen due to the easy accessibility and feasibility of hypothyroidism treatment, however, in cases when it is seen it may present with mortal manifestations. Hence, it is of utmost importance that clinicians take this serious condition into consideration and initiate treatment without delay.

Cite this article as: Pehlivan Köroğlu E, Özışık H, Tamnik F, Uyar M, Erdoğan M. Two deadly complications of untreated hypothyroidism: Sudden cardiac arrest and acute coronary syndrome. Endocrinol Res Pract. 2023;27(1):28-32.