Antithyroid Drugs for Hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism is a treatable endocrine disorder. Having a working knowledge of the current evidence-based guidelines for treating hyperthyroidism aids in improved patient care.

A case report of neonatal thyrotoxicosis due to maternal autoimmune hyperthyroidism.

A case of neonatal thyrotoxicosis secondary to maternal autoimmune hyperthyroidism is reported in an infant born at 34 weeks gestation who presented with tachycardia, jitteriness, diarrhea, and a small goiter. Propranolol and oxygen were used to treat high-output cardiac failure and transient persistent pulmonary hypertension. The infant's response to propylthiouracil therapy, gradual resolution of cardiac and systemic symptoms, and normaliziation of thyroid studies are described. Thyroid physiology and function and the special considerations in a premature infant are reviewed. An overview of maternal autoimmune hyperthyroidism and the implications for the developing fetus and neonate are presented. The risk factors for, and clinical presentation of, hyperthyroidism are outlined and treatment strategies highlighted. The nursing care of infants with hyperthyroidism is carefully described with an emphasis on the surveillance for and management of multisystem manifestations.

The thyroid gland: physiology and pathophysiology.

The thyroid gland contains many follicular cells that store the thyroid hormones within the thyroglobulin molecule until they are needed by the body. The thyroid hormones, often referred to as the major metabolic hormones, affect virtually every cell in the body. Synthesis and secretion of the thyroid hormones depend on the presence of iodine and tyrosine as well as maturation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid system. Interruption of this development, as occurs with premature delivery, results in inadequate production of thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroxine, leading to a variety of physiologic conditions. Pathologic conditions occur in the presence of insufficient thyroid production or a defect in the thyroid gland. Laboratory tests are important in diagnosing conditions of the thyroid gland. A thorough history in combination with clinical manifestations and radiologic findings are also useful in diagnosing specific thyroid conditions. Nurses play an important role in identifying and managing thyroid disorders and in providing supportive care to infants and their families.

Hyperthyroidism in elderly patients.

Hyperthyroid disorders occur in older people and often are present with atypical findings or as apathetic hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism exacerbates underlying chronic disease, especially cardiovascular conditions. Elderly people can be treated successfully and stabilized with careful screening, astute diagnostics, and appropriate therapy.

Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy: nursing care issues.

Untreated hyperthyroidism during pregnancy is associated with a high incidence of maternal and fetal complications. The perinatal nurse needs knowledge of the pathophysiology of this condition to implement a care plan. Antithyroid medications are used to restore the patient's normal thyroid function. Ongoing evaluation of clinical and laboratory data assists the nurse in recognizing the development and implementation of interventions for complications, such as thyroid crisis and heart failure, in the pregnant patient.

[Timing of follow-up of hyperthyroidism treated with 131I].

The purpose of this study was to explore the optimal reexamination time for the patients who had 131I therapy. The weight of thyroid, serum levels of T3 and T4 were observed in 128 patients with hyperthyroidism in various time before and after 131I therapy. The result indicated that the optimal reexamination time for the patients was 60 to 90 days after 131I treatment if the patient has no special complaints.

Thyrotoxic atrial fibrillation: pathophysiology, detection, and management.

Hyperthyroidism is a frequently misdiagnosed cause of atrial fibrillation. Difficulties associated with diagnosis are related to physiologic idiosyncrasies, concomitant illnesses, and medication regimens that may alter thyroid function and thyroid function tests. These factors are described. Nurses have a key role in assisting patients to manage hyperthyroidism and atrial fibrillation through case finding, assessment, education, and psychological support.

Cuidados de enfermería en los ancianos con disfunción tiroidea / Nursing care in old patients with thyroid dysfunction

Se analizan las características clínicas de la disfunción tiroidea en el anciano, con el objetivo de precisar u optimizar la atención de Enfermería en pacientes seniles con afecciones del tiroides. La alta frecuencia de disfunciòn tiroidea (prevalencia de 0,5 a 3,8

) y las características fisiológicas de la tercera etapa de la vida, constituyeron las bases de este trabajo. Por último, se definieron los cuidados de enfermería en estos pacientes, tanto en el nivel de atenciòn primaria, como en pacientes ingresados

Cuidados de enfermería en los ancianos con disfunción tiroidea / Nursing care in old patients with thyroid dysfunction

Se analizan las características clínicas de la disfunción tiroidea en el anciano, con el objetivo de precisar u optimizar la atención de Enfermería en pacientes seniles con afecciones del tiroides. La alta frecuencia de disfunciòn tiroidea (prevalencia de 0,5 a 3,8%) y las características fisiológicas de la tercera etapa de la vida, constituyeron las bases de este trabajo. Por último, se definieron los cuidados de enfermería en estos pacientes, tanto en el nivel de atenciòn primaria, como en pacientes ingresados