Depression in primary hypothyroidism masquerading as inadequate or excessive L-thyroxine consumption.
Depression may occasionally be a presenting feature of primary hypothyroidism but the influence of psychological illness upon L-thyroxine compliance in hypothyroidism has not been specifically addressed. We report six patients with primary hypothyroidism in whom repeated thyroid function tests implied that they were not taking their L-thyroxine as prescribed. The eventual recognition of underlying depression and its treatment led to appropriate treatment with thyroxine as evidenced by clinical euthyroidism and normal thyroid function tests.
Exley
A
A
Leicester Royal Infirmary.
O'Malley
B P
BP
D000328:Adult; D003863:Depression / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D013974:Thyroxine / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D013974:Thyroxine