Why is hydrocortisone given in myxedema coma?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Mark Klimek Electrolytes and Endocrine Test. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations for each query to enhance your understanding. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Why is hydrocortisone given in myxedema coma?

Explanation:
In myxedema coma, there may be concurrent adrenal insufficiency, and the stress of a severe illness can unmask or precipitate an adrenal crisis if cortisol is not adequate. Hydrocortisone is given to provide essential glucocorticoid support during this critical period, helping maintain blood pressure, glucose, and vascular tone while thyroid hormone replacement and other treatments are started. Because starting thyroid hormone can increase metabolic demand, having adequate cortisol beforehand helps prevent crisis. It isn’t used to speed levothyroxine absorption, reduce fever, or increase thyroid hormone production.

In myxedema coma, there may be concurrent adrenal insufficiency, and the stress of a severe illness can unmask or precipitate an adrenal crisis if cortisol is not adequate. Hydrocortisone is given to provide essential glucocorticoid support during this critical period, helping maintain blood pressure, glucose, and vascular tone while thyroid hormone replacement and other treatments are started. Because starting thyroid hormone can increase metabolic demand, having adequate cortisol beforehand helps prevent crisis. It isn’t used to speed levothyroxine absorption, reduce fever, or increase thyroid hormone production.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy