Myxedema coma. Pathophysiology, therapy, and factors affecting prognosis.

Abstract

Myxedema coma is a fatal condition when left unrecognized. With the advent of intensive supportive therapy and the use of intravenous thyroxine, however, mortality for this disorder is declining. Further insights into the pathophysiology of hypothyroidism should lead to more rational approaches to therapy and result in improved survival.