HEMICHOREA: AN UNUSUAL MANIFESTATION OF THYROTOXICOSIS
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Chorea is usually associated with neurological diseases. However, it can also be seen in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatic
fever (Sydenham's chorea), polycythemia vera, and thyrotoxicosis. Here, we report an interesting case of hemichorea in a 32-year-old lady, who
presented with acute onset of jerky, non-repetitive involuntary movements of the left upper and lower limbs. After detailed evaluation, she was found
to have thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid Tc-scan showed diffuse uptake suggesting Grave's disease. A magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was normal.
Other causes of chorea like SLE and rheumatic fever were excluded. She was started on carbimazole. On follow-up after 6 weeks of therapy, there was
the complete disappearance of chorea, and her thyroid hormone levels were normal.
Keywords: Extrapyramidal syndrome, Hyperthyroidism, Corpus striatum, Dancing movements.
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