From Functional Disorder to a Life-Threatening Emergency: A Rare Adolescent Case of Thyrotoxicosis
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Thyroid storm is a rare but life-threatening endocrine emergency that requires rapid recognition and multidisciplinary care. We report the case of a 16-year-old female patient admitted to the emergency department with acute confusion, fever, and tachycardia, in whom severe thyrotoxicosis was confirmed. Her Burch-Wartofsky score was 40, consistent with an impending thyroid storm. Graves' disease had been previously diagnosed, but treatment was delayed, and influenza B infection acted as a precipitating factor. Management with antithyroid drugs, beta-blockers, and intensive care led to clinical improvement, with thyroidectomy subsequently planned. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, coordinated management, and awareness of infection as a trigger, while emphasizing the limitations of antithyroid therapy in adolescents.
Source: Cureus
Institution: University of Mons
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7124418776