INFORMATION ON MYOPATHY-THYROTOXIC

Myopathy-Thyrotoxic is a neuromuscular disorder that occurs due to overproduction of thyroid hormone and is characterized by excessive fatigability, muscle wasting and weakness. It mainly affects muscles of the shoulder, hips and hands. The adverse effects of thyroid hormone on the structure and function of muscles gives rise to this myopathy. In the middle of the twentieth century, researchers found that up to 80% of hyperthyroid patients manifested at least some degree of muscle weakness and this was confirmed on electromyographic studies.

SYNONYMS OF MYOPATHY-THYROTOXIC

Synonyms and related keywords:

1. Endocrine myopathy.
2. Adrenal dysfunction.
3. Cushing syndrome.
4. Steroid myopathy.
5. Thyroid dysfunction.
6. Multiple endocrine neoplasia.

CAUSES OF MYOPATHY-THYROTOXIC

Myopathy-Thyrotoxic can occur due to several causes. Of these, only two are commonly associated with myopathy.
1 One of them is multinodular goiter, when the thyroid gland becomes studded with nodules, enlarges and overproduces thyroxine.
2 The other is Graves’s disease, where the body launches an autoimmune attack on the thyroid gland and causes it to produce excess thyroxine.
3 The disease doesn't cause any muscle wasting; instead, it can sometimes cause muscle enlargement and increased muscle strength.
4 Graves disease, caused by overproduction of the thyroid hormone thyroxine.

SYMPTOMS OF MYOPATHY-THYROTOXIC

Symptoms of Myopathy - Thyrotoxic are:

1. Muscle weakness.
2. Wasting of the pelvic girdle.
3. Fatigue.
4. Heat intolerance.
5. Muscle breakdown.
6. Physical acts such as climbing stairs may be difficult.
7. Grasping and chewing.

DIAGNOSIS OF MYOPATHY-THYROTOXIC

Test under diagnosis are:

1. Blood test.
2. X-Rays.
3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
4. Computerised tomography scan.

TREATMENT OF MYOPATHY-THYROTOXIC

Myopathy-Thyrotoxic is fortunately reversible provided the underlying hyperthyroidism is corrected and a normal thyroid state is restored. This can be done with medications, radiation, or surgery. Treatment is also aimed at symptomatic relief, prevention, and treatment of complications. 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.