Impending myxedema as a manifestation of subclinical hypothyroidism in a case of systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report.

rationaleMyxedema coma, the most severe form of hypothyroidism, is exceedingly rare in the setting of subclinical hypothyroidism. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of impending myxedema coma in a patient with sepsis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), despite the absence of overt hypothyroid symptoms or signs. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 28-year-old female with known SLE presented to the emergency department with a 1-week history of cough, shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain, and high-grade fever. Physical examination revealed hypotension, fever, hypoxia, pallor, oral lesions, and lung crepitations. DIAGNOSES: Initial investigations showed leukocytosis, elevated inflammatory markers, and imaging consistent with cryptogenic organizing pneumonia. Thyroid function tests revealed elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone with normal free tetraiodothyronine and free triiodothyronine, indicating subclinical hypothyroidism. After excluding an SLE flare and other causes, impending myxedema coma was diagnosed.

interventionsInitial treatment targeted presumed sepsis and pneumonia. Upon suspicion of impending myxedema coma, oral levothyroxine replacement therapy was initiated. OUTCOMES: Following levothyroxine administration, the patient's mental status and blood pressure improved significantly. She was discharged after 2 weeks of hospitalization and remained asymptomatic at 4-month follow-up. LESSONS: This case, one of only 6 reported instances of myxedema coma occurring in subclinical hypothyroidism, underscores that this life-threatening condition can develop even without classic hypothyroid features, particularly amidst significant physiological stressors like sepsis and SLE. A high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis based on biochemical findings, and immediate initiation of thyroid hormone replacement are critical for successful management.