UMMS Affiliation
Department of Anesthesiology
Date
3-24-2012
Document Type
Poster
Medical Subject Headings
Anesthesia, General; Delayed Emergence from Anesthesia; Myxedema
Disciplines
Anesthesiology
Abstract
The incidence of perioperative morbidity associated with varying degrees of untreated thyroid disease is unknown, however major complications have been reported including severe hypotension or cardiac arrest, extreme sensitivity to opioids and anesthetics with prolonged unconsciousness, and myxedema coma. Myxedema coma is a rare and life-threatening illness the outcome of which has not been robustly studied in large numbers, partly due to its low incidence. This case illustrates the differential diagnosis of delayed emergence from general anesthesia and the value of a complete history and physical exam. Although delayed emergence from general anesthesia is not uncommon, recognizing the cause and instituting timely treatment is imperative in conditions where delayed therapy can increase morbidity and mortality.
Comments
Poster presentation at the New England Anesthesia Resident Conference, held on March 24, 2012 in Burlington, VT.