Dysphagia as a manifestation of thyrotoxicosis: Report of three cases and literature review
Journal
Dysphagia
Journal Volume
19
Journal Issue
2
Pages
120-124
Date Issued
2004
Author(s)
Abstract
Myopathy is frequently associated with thyrotoxicosis. Skeletal muscles are predominantly involved in thyrotoxic myopathy, but dysphagia is extremely rare. We report three cases of thyrotoxicosis with dysphagia and review of the literature of the past 30 years. Most of these patients had antecedent muscle weakness before the onset of dysphagia although some suffered from a sudden onset of bulbar palsy. Either a myopathic or neuropathic pattern was found on electromyography. The incidence of oropharyngeal dysphagia was higher than that of esophageal motility dysfunction. Aspiration pneumonia occurred more accompanied by oropharyngeal dysphagia. The swallowing disorder could be resolved completely within 3 weeks after treatment for thyrotoxicosis. In light of these clinical experiences, early intensive treatment that includes antithyroid agent, beta-blocker, and Lugol solution may be necessary.
SDGs
Other Subjects
antibiotic agent; antithyroid agent; carbimazole; digoxin; glucocorticoid; iodine 131; lugol; magnesium sulfate; propranolol; propylthiouracil; pyridostigmine; adult; aspiration pneumonia; bulbar paralysis; case report; clinical feature; differential diagnosis; disease association; disease course; dysphagia; electromyography; esophagus motility; female; heart failure; hospital discharge; human; hyperthyroidism; hypomagnesemia; male; muscle weakness; myopathy; neutropenia; nose feeding; priority journal; radioisotope therapy; review; skeletal muscle; thyrotoxicosis
Publisher
Springer New York
Type
review