Thyroid storm caused by a partial hydatidiform mole

Thyroid. 2008 Apr;18(4):479-81. doi: 10.1089/thy.2007.0212.

Abstract

Clinical thyrotoxicosis is rare in molar pregnancy and has yet to be reported in a patient with a partial mole. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which has thyrotropic activity, is believed to be responsible for hyperthyroidism of gestational trophoblastic activity and hyperemesis gravidarum. We report the first case of hyperthyroidism presenting as thyroid storm in a partial molar pregnancy. Normal thyroid function returned after the partial mole was evacuated, and the biochemical improvement correlated with declining hCG levels. This case highlights the importance of including partial mole in the differential of hCG-mediated hyperthyroidism.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chorionic Gonadotropin / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydatidiform Mole / complications
  • Hydatidiform Mole / diagnosis*
  • Hyperthyroidism / complications
  • Hyperthyroidism / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnosis*
  • Thyroid Crisis / complications
  • Thyroid Crisis / diagnosis*
  • Thyroid Gland / pathology*
  • Thyroxine / metabolism
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Triiodothyronine / metabolism
  • Trophoblasts / metabolism

Substances

  • Chorionic Gonadotropin
  • Triiodothyronine
  • Thyroxine