Title:
Myxedema Coma in the Emergency Department: A Diagnostic Challenge – A Case Report

Authors:
Marielena Barranco Santillán, Ignacio Alberto Méndez de Jesús, Jossue Ricardo Solís Estrada, Aida Martínez Badajoz, Armando Barranco Juárez, Mexico

Abstract:

Myxedema coma is an endocrine emergency and the most severe manifestation of decompensated hypothyroidism. We report the case of a 47-year-old woman admitted to the emergency department with acute neurological symptoms. Although she had no previous diagnosis of hypothyroidism, she exhibited multiple clinical features suggestive of myxedema coma. Delayed recognition of the condition resulted in postponed initiation of appropriate therapy, contributing to rapid clinical deterioration and ultimately death. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of myxedema coma in the emergency setting and reviews its clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and current management, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and prompt treatment to improve patient outcomes.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijmshr.2026.10406