$Unique_ID{BRK01563}
$Pretitle{Endocrine Glands and Metabolism}
$Title{Thyroid Medication for a Change in Mental Status}
$Subject{nursing home hypothyroid behavior}
$Volume{C-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Thyroid Medication for a Change in Mental Status


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Our neighbor, a widow for some years now, seemed to be going
through a terrible change in mental status.  She became irritable and
unfriendly, and even began to have changes in her face.  When her daughter
came down to visit and finally got her to her doctor, she was treated, and
cured of her mental illness by thyroid medication.  We have never heard of
such a thing, and would like to know what happened, though we are reluctant to
question her.  Can you provide us with some answers?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  I would be happy to, as I have enough information from your letter to
provide me with the answers you wish.  The woman was suffering from
hypothyroidism, also known as "myxedema".  There are a number of possible
underlying causes, but essentially the thyroid gland no longer functions
properly, and enough thyroid hormone is not produced.  Slowly, and usually
very gradually, physical changes can be observed, a dull facial expression,
puffiness around the eyes, and drooping eyelids.  The skin becomes coarse,
dry, scaly and thick, and the scalp hair becomes sparse and dry.  The patients
become forgetful, and in some, as in your neighbor, there are changes in their
personality, and their intellect becomes diminished.  When the changes are
severe enough they resemble a true psychosis.  Such a condition has been named
"myxedema madness" by some clinicians.  The sad part is that this condition is
frequently misdiagnosed, especially in older folks, but no amount of
psychotherapy or tranquilizers or antidepressants can help.  And without
proper treatment, the condition persists, leading to complete physical and
mental deterioration.  There are a number of laboratory tests that can swiftly
pinpoint the problem, and a number of thyroid medications exist that can
replace the amounts needed by the body.  The good news is that with these
proper medications, the situation can be reversed rapidly, and these patients
may make a complete recovering, enabling them to return home, and live happy
and productive lives.  I see no reason not to discuss this with your neighbor,
I would guess she might enjoy the company, and would delight in telling you
the tale of her medical experiences.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
