Thyroid Troubles: Hyperthyroidism and Thyrotoxicosis
Thyrotoxicosis results from an excess of circulating free T4 and free T3. Hyperthyroidism indicates thyroid gland overactivity, resulting in thyrotoxicosis...
Thyroid Troubles: Understanding Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism results from deficiency of thyroxine (T4) or tri-iodothyronine (T3). Common presenting symptoms include tiredness, lethargy, weight gain, cold intolerance...
Cushing and Addison’s Disease: Approach, Evaluation and Management
Cushing's syndrome is the result of chronic exposure to excess glucocorticoid. This is most commonly iatrogenic secondary to glucocorticoid administration. Addison's disease is primary adrenocortical failure...
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) Algorithm
Presentation - 3Ps - Polyuria, Polydipsia, Polyphagia. Non-specific symptoms: weakness, vomiting, abdominal pain, blurry vision. Physical Exam: Acetone smell; Dehydration / tachycardia / hypotension / shock; Kussmaul's respiration (deep/labored breathing secondary to acidosis)
Hyperthyroidism and Antithyroid Drugs
Thyroid overactivity in Graves’ disease results from formation of IgG antibodies that bind to and activate TSH receptors. Consequently, there is overproduction of hormone with cessation of TSH secretion. Graves’…
Measures and Regimens for Preventing Drug-Induced Cushing’s Syndrome
Cortisol release and its modification by glucocorticoids
When glucocorticoid medication is suddenly withheld, the atrophic cortex is unable to produce sufficient cortisol and a potentially life-threatening cortisol deficiency may develop. Therefore, glucocorticoid therapy should always be tapered off by gradual reduction of the dosage.
Recognizing and Treating Thyroid Storm
Thyroid storm is an extreme version of hyperthyroidism with a mortality rate that approaches 30%, even with treatment. The recognition and management of thyroid storm can be difficult in the…
Pitfalls in the Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of diabetic ketoacidosis
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a critical metabolic derangement that is commonly precipitated by acute illness (i.e., infection, myocardial infarction, stroke) or medication noncompliance. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) - Summary (Diagnosis and…