Changing axis deviation and paroxysmal atrial flutter associated with subclinical hyperthyroidism.

Abstract

Subclinical hyperthyroidism is an increasingly recognized entity that is defined as a normal serum free thyroxine and free triiodothyronine levels with a thyroid-stimulating hormone level suppressed below the normal range and usually undetectable. It has been reported that subclinical hyperthyroidism is not associated with coronary heart disease or mortality from cardiovascular causes but it is sufficient to induce arrhythmias including atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. It has also been reported that increased factor X activity in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism represents a potential hypercoagulable state. Rarely, it has also been reported intermittent changing axis deviation during atrial fibrillation and during atrial flutter. We present a case of paroxysmal atrial flutter and changing axis deviation associated with subclinical hyperthyroidism, in a 76-year-old Italian man. Also this case focuses attention on the importance of a correct evaluation of subclinical hyperthyroidism.

• Authors: Salvatore Patanè, Filippo Marte
• Journal: International journal of cardiology (Int J Cardiol) Vol. 144 Issue 2 Pg. e31-3 (Oct 08 2010) ISSN: 1874-1754 [Electronic] Netherlands
• PMID: 19171394 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Letter)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Aged
• Atrial Flutter (etiology, physiopathology)
• Electrocardiography
• Humans
• Hyperthyroidism (complications)
• Male