Calcium in tyhroid storm

 Q: Which is more common in thyroid storm?

A) Hypercalcemia 

B) Hypocalcemia

Answer: A

There is only one specific laboratory marker in thyroid storm i.e., low TSH and high free T4 and/or T3. All other laboratory findings are non-specific but help in making the diagnosis. One of such non-specific but important laboratory findings is hypercalcemia though mostly at a milder level. This is due to increased bone resorption and hemoconcentration. 

Other associated findings can be hyperglycemia and abnormal LFT. Interestingly, CBC can have either leukocytosis or leukopenia.

#endocrine

Reference:

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