Pulmonary hypertension caused by Graves' thyrotoxicosis: normal pulmonary hemodynamics restored by (131)I treatment.

Abstract

We describe a case of pulmonary hypertension, initially thought to be idiopathic, which resolved after treatment of Graves' hyperthyroidism. Results of pulmonary artery catheterization before and after treatment are reported, and the effects of thyrotoxicosis on hemodynamics and pulmonary function are briefly reviewed. Possible mechanisms for development of pulmonary hypertension caused by hyperthyroidism include pulmonary vascular endothelial dysfunction or damage because of autoimmunity or the high cardiac output state, or increased metabolism of intrinsic pulmonary vasodilators.

• Authors: I A Nakchbandi, J A Wirth, S E Inzucchi
• Journal: Chest (Chest) Vol. 116 Issue 5 Pg. 1483-5 (Nov 1999) ISSN: 0012-3692 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10559121 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Iodine Radioisotopes

Topics

• Cardiac Catheterization
• Cardiac Output
• Female
• Graves Disease (complications, drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Humans
• Hypertension, Pulmonary (drug therapy, etiology, physiopathology)
• Iodine Radioisotopes (therapeutic use)
• Middle Aged
• Pulmonary Circulation
• Pulmonary Wedge Pressure