Endocrine Abstracts

Tuberculosis involving the thyroid gland is known to be rare with 76 cases being reported as of 2006, and may vary in their presentation*. We present a case of a previously well 67-year-old male who consulted for decreased sensorium, jaundice and hypotension, all attributed to sepsis. Patient exhibited no hyper-or hypothyroid symptoms and physical examination did not reveal clues to an underlying thyroid disease. Cultures of the blood, urine and sputum were inconclusive and despite empiric antibiotics and inotropic support, patient succumbed to multi-organ failure. Post-mortem examination revealed disseminated tuberculosis involving the thyroid as well as the liver, lungs, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, adrenals and various lymph nodes in the thoracic and abdominal regions.

Discussion: Disseminated tuberculosis by itself is rare even in countries endemic to tuberculosis. Its non-specific symptoms lead to a low detection rate, and despite tuberculous involvement of the thyroid glands, this may be clinically inapparent and may not require treatment. Thyroid function tests may be warranted however in the setting of extensive thyroid involvement.

Declaration of interest: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research project.

Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sector.