Masks of postoperative hypothyroidism

The prevalence of hypothyroidism in the population is quite high. According to the World Health Organization, thyroid dysfunction ranks second among endocrine diseases, followed by diabetes mellitus. Hypothyroidism has many manifestations, so a doctor of any specialty in his practice has a chance to meet a patient with hypothyroidism both with an established diagnosis and with the need for differential diagnostics of various pathological conditions with impaired thyroid function. This article presents a clinical observation of a patient with long-term uncompensated postoperative hypothyroidism, which caused complications in various organs and systems. The clinical observation demonstrated the effectiveness of replacement therapy in the treatment of hypothyroidism and its complications. It is necessary to remember about the timely diagnosis of “masks” of hypothyroidism, such as gynecological disorders, pathology of the cardiovascular and hepatobiliary systems, lipid metabolism disorders with the progression of atherosclerosis, changes in the skin and its appendages, leading to a sharp decrease in the quality of life of patients. An interdisciplinary approach to the management of such patients ensures timely correction of complications, improving the quality and duration of life of patients.