Amiodarone induced myxedema coma: Two case reports and literature review.

Amer Hawatmeh, Mohammad Thawabi, Ahmad Abuarqoub, Fayez Shamoon

Journal: Heart & lung : the journal of critical care 2019;47(4):429-431

PMID: 29793782

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Abstract

Amiodarone is a benzofuran derivative that contains 37% iodine by weight and is structurally similar to the thyroid hormones. Amiodarone has a complex effect on the thyroid gland, ranging from abnormalities of thyroid function tests to overt thyroid dysfunction, with either thyrotoxicosis or hypothyroidism. Myxedema coma secondary to amiodarone use has been rarely reported in the literature. Our two case reports are an add on to the literature, and illustrate that amiodarone is an important cause of thyroid dysfunction including hypothyroidism and myxedema coma. Hence, healthcare providers should have a high index of suspicion for these conditions while treating patients who are taking amiodarone therapy as early recognition and management are essential to optimize outcomes.

Address: Department of Cardiology, New York Medical College, St. Michael's Medical Center, 111 Central Ave, Newark, NJ 07102, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].; Department of Cardiology, New York Medical College, St. Michael's Medical Center, 111 Central Ave, Newark, NJ 07102, USA.; Department of Cardiology, New York Medical College, St. Joseph Medical Center, 703 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07503, USA.

DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2018.03.012

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MeSH Terms: Aged, 80 and over, Amiodarone, Anti-Arrhythmia Agents, Coma, Female, Humans, Myxedema, Thyroid Function Tests, Thyroxine