Ruby is receiving thyroid replacement therapy, develops the flu, and forgets to take her thyroid replacement medicine. The nurse understands that skipping this medication will put the client at risk for developing which of the following life-threatening complications?
A. Exophthalmos
B. Thyroid storm
C. Myxedema coma
D. Tibial myxedema
Correct Answer: C. Myxedema coma
Myxedema coma, severe hypothyroidism, is a life-threatening condition that may develop if thyroid replacement medication isn’t taken.
Option A: Exophthalmos, protrusion of the eyeballs, is seen with hyperthyroidism. If a person’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland, it may react by producing extra hormones. The autoimmune antibodies can attack the muscles and soft tissue surrounding the eyes, which can cause them to protrude from the sockets.
Option B: Thyroid storm is life-threatening but is caused by severe hyperthyroidism. It is also referred to as thyrotoxic crisis, an acute, life-threatening hypermetabolic state induced by excessive release of thyroid hormones.
Option D: Tibial myxedema, peripheral mucinous edema involving the lower leg, is associated with hypothyroidism but isn’t life-threatening