Thyroid storm and calcium metabolism

Q: Thyroid storm is usually associated with? (select one)

A) Hypocalcemia
B) Hypercalcemia


Answer: B

Though not diagnostic but various biochemical abnormalities are supportive of suspected thyroid storm in patients with suppressed TSH and elevated T3 or/and T4. It includes hypercalcemia, abnormal liver enzymes, hyperglycemia, leukocytosis, or leukopenia. Hypercalcemia, as expected, is from hemoconcentration and increased bone resorption.

#endocrinology
#electrolytes


Reference:

Nayak B, Burman K. Thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2006; 35:663.