[Pathophysiology and clinical aspects of myxedema]

Abstract

The pathophysiology and clinical presentation of myxedema is reviewed in this article. Myxedema represents the leading symptom in hypothyroidism but also occurs in a localized form in autoimmune hyperthyroidism. Even in subclinical cases of thyroid diseases may myxedema represent a valuable symptom in establishing the correct diagnosis. With adequate laboratory testing to ascertain the underlying disease, specific therapy can usually be initiated.