Purpose: This study was designed to highlight the significant morbidity related to undetected hypothyroidism in the elderly who are undergoing emergency surgery.
Method: Case reports of six patients who presented with acute colonic surgical conditions are reviewed.
Results: Six cases of undetected hypothyroidism in a group of elderly patients was unmasked at the time of surgery for acute colonic conditions or in the perioperative period. These patients experienced increased morbidity, but once detected and treated, all but one had an uneventful recovery.
Conclusion: Unrecognized hypothyroidism may lead to unnecessary surgery or even a potentially fatal outcome. A heightened awareness of this not so uncommon entity is mandatory.