Thyrotoxic Myopathy
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What is Thyrotoxic Myopathy?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?OrganizationsWhat is Thyrotoxic Myopathy?
Thyrotoxic myopathy is a neuromuscular disorder that may accompany hyperthyroidism (Graves' disease, caused by overproduction
of the thyroid hormone thyroxine). Symptoms may include muscle weakness, wasting of the pelvic girdle and shoulder muscles,
fatigue, and heat intolerance. Muscle breakdown may occur in acute cases. Physical acts such as climbing stairs may be difficult.
Patients may develop muscle damage to the eyes and eyelids, which may affect mobility of the eye muscles, and temporary, but
severe, attacks of muscle weakness known as periodic paralysis.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment is based on treatment for hyperthyroidism and may include prescription of iodine and other drugs, beta-blockers,
and surgery. Myopathy may improve by restoring normal thyroid function. Complete or partial removal of the thyroid may be
required in severe cases.
What is the prognosis?
With treatment, muscle weakness may improve or be reversed.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports a broad range of research on neuromuscular disorders such as thyrotoxic myopathy. Much of this research
is aimed at learning more about these disorders and finding ways to prevent and treat them.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Organizations
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive
and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
National Institutes of Health, DHHS
31 Center Drive, Rm. 9A06 MSC 2560
Bethesda,
MD
20892-2560
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
Tel: 301-496-3583
|
Muscular Dystrophy Association
3300 East Sunrise Drive
Tucson,
AZ
85718-3208
mda@mdausa.org
http://www.mda.org
Tel: 520-529-2000
800-344-4863
Fax: 520-529-5300
|
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
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Last updated July 19, 2007
