Acute icteric hepatitis as the main manifestation of hyperthyroidism

Abstract

Thyroid storm is a rare (<1%) cause of acute icteric hepatitis. We present the case of a 32-year-old white female who was admitted to hospital due to acute hepatitis with jaundice, as a result of development of hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease. Clinical examination, serological tests, radiological and cardiovascular investigations excluded other causes of acute hepatitis. The hepatitis reversed a few days after initiation of hyperthyroidism treatment. In conclusion, acute icteric hepatitis can be the presenting symptom of hyperthyroidism, thus creating difficulties in differential diagnosis and management.

Keywords: Jaundice, acute hepatitis, hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease