Myxedema psychosis
Myxedema Psychosis
Myxedema psychosis (pronunciation: mix-uh-dee-muh sy-koh-sis) is a rare and severe manifestation of hypothyroidism, characterized by mood changes, delirium, and hallucinations. The term originates from the Greek words "myxa" meaning mucus, "oedema" meaning swelling, and "psychosis" referring to a severe mental disorder.
Definition
Myxedema psychosis, also known as Myxedema madness, is a psychiatric condition associated with severe or long-standing untreated hypothyroidism. It is characterized by symptoms such as cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, psychosis, and in severe cases, myxedema coma.
Symptoms
The symptoms of myxedema psychosis can vary widely and may include cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, hallucinations, delirium, and in severe cases, myxedema coma. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and constipation, which are common in hypothyroidism.
Causes
Myxedema psychosis is caused by severe, untreated hypothyroidism. The thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in the functioning of the brain, and a deficiency can lead to various neurological and psychiatric symptoms. The exact mechanism of how hypothyroidism leads to psychosis is not fully understood.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of myxedema psychosis is based on the clinical presentation of psychiatric symptoms in a patient with severe, untreated hypothyroidism. Laboratory tests to measure thyroid hormone levels, specifically TSH and T4, are essential for confirming the diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment for myxedema psychosis involves correcting the underlying hypothyroidism. This is typically done with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, such as levothyroxine. In some cases, antipsychotic medications may be used to manage the psychiatric symptoms.
Prognosis
With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for myxedema psychosis is generally good. Most patients experience a complete resolution of psychiatric symptoms once the underlying hypothyroidism is treated.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Myxedema psychosis
- Wikipedia's article - Myxedema psychosis
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