Myxedema coma – a rare life-threatening form of hypothyroidism. It is a disorder characterized by hypoventilation, hypoglycemia, and hypotension. The client with myxedema presents with severe metabolic disorders, generalized nonpitting edema, puffy face, weakness, hypothermia, cardiovascular collapse, and coma.
Diagnostic tests: blood gases, electrolyte levels, ECG, blood sugar, and thyroid hormone levels. Intravenous fluid, electrolyte replacement, intravenous cortisol or other adrenal cortical hormone are used in the treatment. Warm blanket for low body temperature, glucose supplements for hypoglycemia.

Content area: Med-Surg | Endocrine