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Pathology · single question

Myxedema coma is the extreme manifestation of which endocrine condition?

  1. Hyperthyroidism (thyroid storm)
  2. Cushing syndrome
  3. Addison disease (adrenal crisis)
  4. Severe hypothyroidism
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Correct answer: D. Severe hypothyroidism

Myxedema coma = life-threatening severe hypothyroidism. Features: profound hypothermia, bradycardia, hypotension, altered consciousness, hyponatremia. Emergency: IV thyroid hormone replacement. Dental relevance: macroglossia, delayed wound healing.
  • A. Hyperthyroid crisis = thyroid storm — hyperthermia, tachycardia, hypertension. Opposite of myxedema.
  • B. Cushing = excess cortisol — moon face, buffalo hump, hypertension, hyperglycemia.
  • C. Addison disease (adrenal crisis) = hyperpigmentation + hypotension + electrolyte abnormalities.
  • D. CORRECT. Myxedema coma = extreme severe hypothyroidism. Hypothermia + bradycardia + altered consciousness.

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