Lithium carbonate-induced giant goiter and subclinical hyperthyroidism in a patient with schizophrenia: A case report and review of literature.
World J Clin Cases
; 12(20): 4357-4364, 2024 Jul 16.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-39015924
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Lithium carbonate is used to manage various mood disorders, but it can cause thyroid abnormalities, including goiter, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. In rare cases, it can lead to giant goiter and subclinical hyperthyroidism, which may require surgical intervention in severe cases. CASESUMMARY:
This case represents a rare development of giant goiter and subclinical hyperthyroidism in a schizophrenia patient who was subjected to prolonged lithium carbonate treatment. The enlarged thyroid gland caused pressure on the airway and recurrent laryngeal nerve, which led to respiratory distress, hoarseness, and dysphagia. The immediate danger of suffocation required urgent surgical intervention. In this report, we describe the case of a 41-year-old Chinese woman. This sheds light on the etiology and challenges associated with managing a giant goiter. The patient underwent a subtotal thyroidectomy to relieve airway compression and facilitate airway expansion. Prior to the procedure, the patient was given iodine to prepare. Concurrently, changes were made to the psychiatric medication regimen. Following surgery, the patient's respiratory function and vocal cord functionality improved significantly, and her mental state remained stable.CONCLUSION:
It is essential to monitor thyroid function, test thyroid antibody levels, and perform thyroid ultrasounds consistently in all patients undergoing long-term lithium carbonate treatment. This vigilance helps prevent severe and potentially life-threatening thyroid enlargement.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Language:
En
Journal:
World J Clin Cases
Year:
2024
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
China