Plasmapheresis in severe refractory thyroid storm

Q: Periodic plasmapheresis every few months is a viable option instead of thyroidectomy in severe refractory thyroid storm?

A) True

B) False

Answer: B

Plasmapheresis can be used as a bridge in severe refractory thyroid storm while preparing for thyroidectomy. This is because plasmapheresis's effect is transient and lasts only for a day or two. Although there is weak evidence that plasmapheresis before urgent thyroidectomy may improve outcomes.

#endocrinology

References:

1. Vyas AA, Vyas P, Fillipon NL, et al. Successful treatment of thyroid storm with plasmapheresis in a patient with methimazole-induced agranulocytosis. Endocr Pract 2010; 16:673.

2. Tieken K, Paramasivan AM, Goldner W, et al. THERAPEUTIC PLASMA EXCHANGE AS A BRIDGE TO TOTAL THYROIDECTOMY IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE THYROTOXICOSIS. AACE Clin Case Rep 2020; 6:e14.