Endocrinology
Endocrinology
Overview:
Hypothyroidism
Types:
Primary hypothyroidism: abnormalities intrinsic to the thyroid gland
Secondary hypothyroidism: Underactive Thyroid due to pituitary disease which impairs TSH production
Causes of Hypothyroidism:
Goitrous causes (i.e tendency to enlarge in size) Non-goitorus causes
I: Iodine deficiency P: Post I131 ablation
I: Inflammatory: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis P: Post Thyroidectomy
I: Iatrogenic: Amiodarone/Lithium Postpartum Thyroiditis
I: Inborn error: Dyshormonogenesis P: Pituitary disease(Secondary hypothyroidism)
(due to enzyme deficiency)
Clinical features: Develops very insidiously and can be widely variable, some of them are very non specific
A: Asthenia: Weakness/lack of energy
A: Appearance: facial puffiness with coarse features
Hair loss with dry lustureless hair, particularly tendency of the eye brow to fall
B: Body weight: gain
C: Cold intolerance
C: Constipation
C: Children may present with growth failure, declining academic performance, delayed dentition, pubertal delay,
menstrual irregularities, or even rarely, precocious puberty. The presentation is more complex in neonates, and any
newborn/infant with the following features must undergo thyroid function testing: hoarse cry, prolonged jaundice,
mottled skin, umbilical hernia, constipation, poor feeding and failure to achieve milestones.
CNS:
• A:attention deficit
• B: behavioural disturbance
• C: Concentration Lack
• D: Dementia
• E: Extereme deficiency: Myxoedema coma/crisis: confusion/convulsion/coma
D: 1.DBP rises 2.Dyslipidemia 3.Dermal: dry, coarse skin
E: Extremity:
• Bradycardia
• Carpal tunnel syndrome( Entrapment neuropathy of Median nerve)
• Skin: dry, coarse
• Delayed relaxation time of jerks: best elicited in ankle jerk
F: Fertility issues: subfertility/infertility
G: Goitre
G: Gyane: Erratic/irregular cycle
H: Husky voice
Investigations:
1. Blood: Thyroid function test: TSH, FT4, FT3
1. Primary Hypothyroidism: low T4 and a high TSH level
2. Secondary Hypothyroidism: low T4 & low TSH
When the TSH is high, but the T4 is normal, this condition is described as subclinical hypothyroidism.
Parameter Subclinical Hypothyroidism Overt Primary Hypothyroidism Secondary Hypothyroidism
T4 Normal Low Low
TSH High High Low/Normal
T3 is not routinely measured in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism as in milder forms of hypothyroidism, the increased TSH
stimulates the selective production of T3 and this may result in a high/normal T3. However, in severe varieties of
hypothyroidism, the T3 is also low.
Free hormone estimations (which estimate the concentration of thyroid hormones that are not bound to circulating
proteins) are advantageous as they measure the metabolically active component, and also because they are not affected by
conditions which increase or decrease the levels of thyroid-hormone binding proteins.
2. Anti-TPO antibodies : Autoimmune thyroiditis: high levels of Anti-TPO antibodies
Treatment: L-thyroxine monotherapy has become the mainstay of treating hypothyroidism
Although there is general agreement that patients with primary hypothyroidism with TSH levels above 10 mIU/L should
be treated, which patients with TSH levels of 5-10 mIU/L will benefit is less certain. In cases where the TSH is above
normal (usually this means above 5 mU/L) but below 10 mU/L, a variety of criteria indicate the need to therapy
Positive anti-thyroid antibodies Pregnancy
Goiter Obesity
Carpal tunnel syndrome Unexplained hyponatremia
Dyslipidemia Menstrual irregularities
Depression Short stature
Infertility
Subclinical hypothyroidism
When the free thyroxine (FT4) is normal and the TSH is high in absence of h/o thyroid dysfunction or therapy the state is
termed subclinical hypothyroidism.
In this situation, if the TSH is more than 10 mU/L thyroxine therapy is indicated.
In cases where the TSH is above normal (usually this means above 5 mU/L) but below 10 mU/L, a variety of criteria
indicate the need to therapy
Positive anti-thyroid antibodies Pregnancy
Goiter Obesity
Carpal tunnel syndrome Unexplained hyponatremia
Dyslipidemia Menstrual irregularities
Depression Short stature
Infertility
Myxedema coma (myxedema crisis)
Myxedema coma (myxedema crisis) is a rare but life-threatening condition that represents severe hypothyroidism with
physiological decompensation.
At risk patients: Occurs in patients with long-standing undiagnosed or undertreated hypothyroidism
Precipitating factor(s): “Pathological” stress: eg.
1. Critical illness: eg. Infection, CVA, Heart failure
2. Trauma
3. Post-operative stress
C/F
Hypothyroidism: PMH of hypothyroidism: may be +, but background hypothyroidism may be undiagnosed, so
Myxedema crisis can be the initial presentation of hypothyroidism
Hypothermia Heart rate: Bradycardia
Hypotension (poor cardiac contractility due to profound deficiency of thyroxine)
Hypoactivity: Altered sensorium/Behavioural disturbance/Confusion/Convulsion/Coma/Delirium/Drowsiness
Hypoventilation: Drowsiness (CO2 retention due to central depression of ventilatory drive)
Hyponatremia: asymptomatic or symptomatic (Lack of thyroxine promotes Natreuresis)
Hypoglycemia: asymptomatic or symptomatic
Investigations:
Diagnostic purpose: Thyroid function test: Hypothyroid pattern:
Elevated TSH with low FT4 and FT3 indicates primary thyroid disorder
Low TSH level with low FT4 and FT3 indicates pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction.
Assessment purpose: To look for any ppting factor+ biochemical disturbance associated with severe hypothyroidism
CBC/ CRP ABG
Ur+ Cr/ Electrolytes: Na/K ECG
Infection/sepsis screen: CxR/Urine R.E/M.E/C.S+ Blood C/S+ Procalcitonin
Treatment:
Definitive:
1.Thyroxine replacement: Ideally initially IV Levothyroxine (T4) + T3, Once stable start PO Levothyroxine
Because the rate of conversion of T4 to the active hormone T3 can be reduced in these patients, the addition of T3 along
with T4 has been recommended.(IV thyroxine preparation is NOT available in India, so we rely on PO/Ryles tube
administration)
2.Corticosteroid: IV Hydrocortisone should be administered until the possibility of adrenal insufficiency is excluded by
ACTH stimulation test because otherwise there is a potential risk of precipitating acute adrenal insufficiency caused by
the accelerated metabolism and increased demand of cortisol that follows T4 therapy. Primary hypothyroidism may
have concomitant primary adrenal insufficiency while patients with secondary hypothyroidism may have associated
hypopituitarism and secondary adrenal insufficiency.
Supportive: ≥ 1 of the followings depending on clinical scenario
1.Hypothermia: Passive rewarming using ordinary blankets and a warm room
Active rewarming using external devices: Bair Hugger blanket is the temperature management system that
uses forced-air warming
2.Hypotension: intravenous fluids with normal saline is advised. Refractory hypotension can be treated with vasopressors
3.Hypoventilation: Intubate and ventilate
4.Hyponatremia: saline and free water restriction
5.Hypoglycemia: intravenous dextrose
6.Treat any precipitating factor
Hashimoto thyroiditis
Characterised by destruction of thyroid cells by various cell- and antibody-mediated immune processes.
Pathophysiology
Initiating process - Ab to thyroid antigens- Anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) + Antithyroglobulin (anti-Tg)
Inadequate hormone production and secretion Glandular size enlargement, but ultimately shrinks
Initially preformed T4 &T3 may "leak" into the circulation from damaged cells
Gradual destruction of the gland Transient Thyrotoxicosis (rarely symptomatic) Before becoming hypo
Permanent Hypothyroidism
C/F
1. Many are asymptomatic till T4/T3 become low
2. Frank features of Hypothyroidism……(if Hashimoto comes as Long Q…write c/f in details)
3. Transient Thyrotoxic features-very rare
4. Goitre- initially and may be significant in size but ultimately gland shrinks
5. Associated autoimmunity diseases - Pernicious anemia, Adrenal insufficiency and Ty1 DM etc
Investigations
1. TFT- TSH + FT4, FT3 - normal/low (Low TSH with Normal T4 & T3 = Subclinical Hypothyroidism…see notes)
2. Antibody-Anti TPO/Anti TTG- confirms Hashimoto, however rarely antibody negative
2. USG of thyroid
Management
Pharmacotherapy
Thyroid hormone replacement- dose titrated Levothyroxine sodium administered usually for life.
Surgery
Indications for surgery include the following:
A large goitre with obstructive symptoms, such as dysphagia, voice hoarseness, and stridor, caused by extrinsic
obstruction of airflow
de Quervain thyroiditis/Subacute thyroiditis
A self-limited thyroid disease associated with a triphasic clinical course of thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, and finally
complete recovery of thyroid function.
Pathophysiology
Initiating process –Viral Infection
Preformed T4 &T3 may "leak" into the circulation Transient Thyrotoxicosis (often symptomatic)
Treatment
1. Pharmacotherapy- Corticosteroids and Tamoxifen (both help- how??....wait till you become a DM endocrine!)
2. Thyroid hormone replacement
3. Surgery- serves dual purpose of establishing the diagnosis and relieving tracheal compression
Thyrotoxicosis
Thyrotoxicosis: the clinico-biochemical state/manifestation of thyroid hormone excess without distinguishing the source.
Hyperthyroidism: an overactive Thyroid gland i.e sustained overproduction of hormone from the thyroid gland
Manifestations due to excess circulating thyroid hormone Manifestations UNIQUE to the underlying disease
Hormone dependent & cause independent Disease dependent & hormone independent
depend on hormone excess depend on pathophysiology of that particular disease
Present in each thyrotoxicosis producing disease
However that of Grave’s disease is most unique (& important)
Graves’ disease
Autoimmune disease characterized by a triad of Endocrinopathry, Opthalmopathy & dermopathy.
Endocrinopathy
bind to TSH receptor of the thyroid cells & stimulates thyroid hormone production similar to TSH
but without normal feedback inhibition Thyrotoxicosis (with Hyperthyroidism)
+ increase thyroid vascularity and growth Goiter
Activating 2. Infiltratory/Graves ophthalmopathy
Antibody antibodies bind to the retro-orbital tissues T-cell inflammatory response + release of cytokines &
activation of fibroblasts accumulation of glycosaminoglycans + fibrofatty tissue/material
Retro-orbital accumulation may lead to
• Compression and/or Inflammation of Optic nerve
• Compression and/or Inflammation of EOM/EOM tendon
• Forward protrusion of the globe(eye ball)
3. Infiltrative dermopathy
Activation of dermal fibroblasts in the anterior leg leading to the development of a pretibial myxoedema
Endocrinopathy dermopathy & Opthalmopathy are independent of each other and therefore an occur in and isolated
manner or any varying combination
Thyroid Eye disease
Biochemical confirmation of thyrotoxicosis: Thyroid function test: FT4, FT3, TSH estimation:
Typically shows Elevated FT4 and FT3; TSH level: varies according to the underlying disease
Supressed: Elevated:
Primary Hyperthyroidism Secondary (Pituitary disease) Hyperthyroidism
Thyrotoxicosis without hyeperthyrodism
Therefore TSH level acts an index of the pattern of underlying disease
Subclinical hyperthyroidism: suppressed TSH with Normal FT4 &FT3
• The ratio of T4 to T3 frequently has a characteristic pattern in different thyrotoxic states.
• Graves’ disease and toxic nodular goiter typically: increasedT3 production, with a T3 /T4 ratio > 20.
• Thyroiditis, I2 exposure, or exogenous levothyroxine intake: T4 is the predominant hormone and T3 /T4< 20.
• T3 toxicosis: A small number of patients may present with an increased FT3 and normal T4: called“T3 toxicosis”.
To diagnose the underlying disease: Nature of these tests depend on the pattern of Thyroid function test
Primary Hyperthyroidism pattern: “Investigate thyroid”
TSH-R antibodies: Grave’s disease
Imaging
2. Nuclear medicine scanning: Radioactive iodine uptake scan: shows an increased uptake by an overactive gland
Distribution/ Pattern of increased uptake varies according to the disease:
• Diffusely increased uptake: Graves’ disease
• Foci/focus of increased uptake: Solitary toxic nodule/ Multiple toxic nodule (“hot nodule”)
Secondary Hyperthyroid pattern: (“Investigate Pituitary”): Pituitary function test +Imaging of Pituitary
Treatment of thyrotoxicosis
Manifestation directed Hormone directed Disease directed & depends on the underlying disease
Propranolol blocks the response to catecholamines at the receptor site and ameliorate some of the manifestations of
thyrotoxicosis like tremor, palpitations, anxiety, excessive sweating, eyelid retraction, and tachycardia: effects are
rapidly manifested and appear to be mediated largely through modulating the increased sensitivity to the sympathetic
nervous system induced by excess thyroid hormone.
Propranolol (but not other β-adrenergic agents) may also weakly block the conversion of T4 to T3 via a mechanism
independent of its effect on catecholamine signaling.
Antithyroid drugs: used to make the patient Euthyroid by the the time a definitive treatment is being contemplated
therefore long term term use is reserved only when a definitive is not feasible
1. Imazoles: Carbimazole/Methimazole 2.Propylthiouracil
Radioablation: Radioactive Iodine ablation: 131I has become the most widely used therapy for hyperthyroidism.
RAI is considered effective, safe, and relatively inexpensive. It is given orally and is absorbed rapidly and completely,
after which it is concentrated, oxidized, and organified by follicular thyroid cells. The ionizing effect of β particles
destroys the thyroid cells by an early inflammatory response, necrosis of follicular cells, and vascular occlusion.
Subsequently chronic inflammation and fibrosis result in a decrease in thyroid size and an impaired ability to secrete
thyroid hormone. Ultimately, almost all patients develop hypothyroidism following 131I.
Surgery: Subtotal or total thyroidectomy
Indication of surgery:
Large goiter causing compressive symptoms or cosmetic disfigurement
Suspicion of malignancy
Graves’ ophthalmopathy (may paradoxically worsen after RAI ablation)
Pregnancy contraindication of RAI
Patient preference
Treatment of Graves’ disease
Thyrotoxic crisis
Thyroid storm (thyrotoxic crisis) is an acute, life-threatening, hypermetabolic state induced by excessive release of
Thyroxine in individuals with thyrotoxicosis.
Pathogenesis: Severely exaggerated effects of Thyroxine due to increased release (with or without increased synthesis)
Background: Underlying Thyrotoxicosis: undiagnosed or a known patient of thyrotoxicosis
Precipitating factors: Thyroid storm is precipitated by the following factors in individuals with thyrotoxicosis:
Sepsis RAI therapy
Surgery Noncompliance with antithyroid medications
Anesthesia induction Molar pregnancy
C/F: are due to ≥ 1 of the followings:
Hyperthyroidism: background of thyrotoxic manifestations
Hyperpyrexia
Hyperhydrosis: excessive sweating
Hyperactivity: anxiety/agitation/behavioural disturbance/confusion/convulsion/ delirium/emotional lability
Heart
• Hypertension with wide pulse pressure • Heart rate:Tachycardia disproportionate to fever
• Hypotension in later stages with shock • Heart Rhythm: Arrhythmia
Hyperperistalsis: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain
Hyperreflexia
Investigations: Thyroid function test:
Low TSH level with high FT4 and FT3 indicates primary thyroid disorder
Elevated TSH with high FT4 and FT3 indicates excess TSH secretion: pituitary or nonpituitary source
Management:
Definitive:
1. Antiadrenergic drugs: Propranolol: orally or via nasogastric tube: dose based on heart rate and blood pressure
2. Antithyroid drugs: Carbimazole/Methimazole- to block further synthesis of thyroid hormones
3. Bile acid sequestrant: Cholestyramine prevents reabsorption of free Thyroxine in the gut
4. Conversion blocker: Glucocorticoids to decrease peripheral conversion of T4 to T3
5.’’Constipator”: Iodine compounds: Lugol iodine or KI: orally or via NG tube to block the release of Thyroxine- to be
given at least 1 hour after starting antithyroid drug therapy
Supportive measures: ≥ 1 of the followings depending on clinical scenario
1. Supplemental oxygen 4. Hypotension: IV fluid/vasopressors
2. Ventilatory support 5. Heart: Antiarrhytmic
3. Hypovolemia:IV fluid 6. Hyperpyrexia: ice packs/cooling blankets/Paracetamol
Solitary Thyroid nodule/Thyroid nodules
A single nodule or multiple nodules of the gland- palpable or radiologically visible
Causes/types/DD….(Short Notes)
1. Benign
a. Euthyroid b. Thyrotoxic/Hypothyroid
Benign cyst Toxic adenoma
Colloid nodule Thyroiditis
Hyperplastic nodule
2. Malignant: Medullary/Papillary/Follicular/Hurthle cell Ca (and many others!!)
C/F- depends on the cause
1. Thyrotoxic- usually pts of toxic adenoma
2. Euthyroid- Cyst/colloid/malignant
3. Nodule may/may not be palpable
4. Warning signs- suspicious of malignancy
1. Accelerated growth of nodule 5. Fixity to surrounding structures
2. Another lesion that suggests a distant metastasis 6. Family history of thyroid cancer
3. Cervical Lymphadenopathy 7. Hoarseness of voice
4. Consistency: Hard
5. Painful nodule = benign, painless can be either
High risk/suspicion of malignancy Intemediate risk Low risk benign pattern Not meeting FNA size cut off
Cytology
Cortisol:
• Alters immunity
• BP ↑
• Bone: inhibits osteoblastic activity
• Collagen matrix: breakdown
• Diabetogenic
• Electrolyte: Na reabsorption & K excretion
• Fluid reabsorption
• Fat breakdown
Adrenal androgen: Reproductive function: musculinisation of females
Mineralocorticoid:
• Electrolyte balance: Na reabsorption & K excretion
• Fluid reabsorption
Investigations: 1.To confirm the diagnosis & type 2. To look for any complications
1. To look for any complications
a. Blood: Elcetrolytes
Glycemic profile
b. Bone densitometry scan: to look for any osteoporosis
2.To confirm the diagnosis & type
Suspected Cushing’s
Patients suppressed morning plasma ACTH (< 5 pg/ml) need adrenal imaging. Normal or elevated ACTH (>15 pg/ml) is
suggestive of ACTH-dependent CS
Management:
Surgical management
ACTH dependent Cushing:
Pituitary tumor: Trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery (TSS)- Excision of adenoma
Ectopic ACTH-secreting tumor: Resection if feasible
Bilateral adrenalectomy performed in bilateral adrenal nodular hyperplasia and for failed TSS need careful follow-up
with steroid replacement. If done in ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome ACTH have to be monitored because of the
risk of developing Nelson’s syndrome.
Medical management:
Indication:
Preoperatively to control cortisol levels
Surgery contraindicated/not feasible
Surgery has failed
Drugs:
Adrenolytic: Mitotane
Modulate ACTH release: Cabergoline/Octreotide/Pasireotide
Inhibits glucocorticoid receptor: Mifepristone/Etomidate
Inhibit steroidogenesis: Metyrapone/Ketoconazole
Adrenocrotical insufficiency/ Hypoadrenalism(Underactive adrenal cortex)
Primary ACI
Immune related: slowly progressive autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex: Addison disease
Intra-adrenal hemorrhage
Infections:
• TB
• HIV
• Waterhouse friderichsen syndrome: fulminant aderenal failure in a case of Meningococcemia
Infiltrative: adrenal metastasis/ Hemochromatosis
Iatrogenic
Secondary ACI: ACI due to pituitary disease: Hypopituitarism: Tumor/trauma/ Iscaemic necrosis/ Irradiation
Mechanism of clinical manifestations:
Glucocorticoid deficiency
Minerelocorticoid deficiency
Adrenal androgen deficiency
Mode of presentation: depending on the underlying disease manifestations may develop insidiously or rapidly
Clinical features
Asymptomatic
Asthenia(EXTREME weakness/lethargy)
BP:
• Low symptomatic or asymptomatic
• Postural hypotension
• Severe hypotension and hemodynamic instability in cases of acute adrenal crisis
Body weight: loss
CNS: altered sensorium
Dermal: Hyperpigmentation: dark brown or black
Distribution: knuckles, elbows, knees, mucous membranes of the oral cavity (especially the dentogingival margins and
buccal areas).Sunexposed areas
Darkening/deepening of naturally pigmented ares: palmar crease, nipple, areola
Hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes often precedes all other symptoms by months to years.
It is caused by the stimulant effect of excess adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) on the melanocytes to produce
melanin. The hyperpigmentation is caused by high levels of circulating ACTH that bind to the melanocortin 1 receptor on
the surface of dermal melanocytes.
Extremity: Pigmentation
Fertility: subfertility/infertility
Gynaecologyical
• Erratic mensturation
• Sparse axillary, pubic hair (due to lack of adrenal androgen)
Investigations:
Treatment:
Acute adrenal crisis (Addisonian crisis)
Potentially life threatening condition due to severe adrenocortical insufficiency.
Etiopathogenesis: Can develop in either of these 3 sets of patients:
Known Adrenocortical insufficiency patients where the condition is usually precipitated by any 1 of the followings:
Inadequate replacement of Glucocorticoid
Severe “pathological” stressful conditions like Critical illness/Post-operative stress, particularly if Hormone
replacement dose has not been proportionately increased in these situations beforehand
Unrecognized/Undiagnosed cases of adrenocortical insufficiency: this can be the initial presentation
Sudden/Rapid failure of a previously healthy gland: acute adrenal Hemorrhage
C/F
Hypoadrenalism: may be a known case of- in these patients a precipitating factor must be looked for
Hypotension: Unexplained shock, usually refractory to fluid and pressor resuscitation
Hypothermia: may occur
Hypoactivity: altered sensorium
Hypoglycemic episodes (due to lack of glucocorticoid)
Hyperpigmentation: may be present
Investigation:
Diagnostic purpose:
Random Serum cortisol: Very low level is indicative of adrenal insufficiency.
ACTH stimulation test: diagnostic test- treatment SHOULD be started on the basis of suspicion pending the result
Assessment purpose: To look for any ppting factor+ biochemical disturbance associated with severe hypothyroidism
CBC
CRP
Ur+ Cr
Electrolytes: Na/K
ABG
ECG
Infection/sepsis screen: CxR/Urine R.E/M.E/C.S+ Blood C/S+ Procalcitonin
Treatment:
Definitive: Glucocorticoids in supraphysiologic or stress doses.
Dexamethasone does not interfere with serum cortisol assay and, thus, may be the initial drug of choice. However,
because Dexamethasone has little mineralocorticoid activity, fluid and electrolyte replacement are essential.
Hydrocortisone 100 mg IV every 6 hours is the preferred treatment to provide mineralocorticoid support.
Delaying glucocorticoid replacement therapy while awaiting the results of the ACTH stimulation test is inappropriate
and dangerous.
Supportive:
Aggressive fluid replacement with 5% or 10% intravenous dextrose and saline solutions
Treatment of hyperkalemia
Look for a precipitating cause and administration of empiric antibiotics is indicated.
Vasopressors (Dopamine/Noradrenaline) may be necessary to combat hypotension.
Pituitary
“bandmaster of the hormonal orchestra”, the pituitary gland synthesizes and releases various hormones that affect
several organs throughout the body
Hypothalamus
Median eminence: Trophic hormone releasing hormones supraoptic and paraventricular nucleus: produce hormones
Via a portal venous system transport through the pituitary stalk
Stimulates Adenohypophysis Pituitary stored in Neurohypophyis
Adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary) Neurohypophysis (Posterior pituitary)
manufactures stores and releases
1. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (Not glandular and does not synthesize hormone)
2. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 1.Oxytocin: 1.Labor & delivery 2. Lactation & breast feeding
3. Luteinizing hormone (LH) 2.ADH (Vasopressin): maintenance of water balance
4. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
5. Growth hormone (GH)
6. Prolactin (PRL)
1. ACTH: controls production of the adrenal gland hormones cortisol & DHEA
2. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): controls thyroid hormone production from the thyroid gland.
3. LH and FSH: control fertility in both sexes and the secretion of sex hormones estrogen and progesterone testosterone
4. Growth hormone (GH): required for growth in childhood and has effects on the entire body throughout life.
5. Prolactin (PRL): required for breast feeding.
6. Oxytocin: required during labor and delivery and for lactation and breast feeding.
7. Antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin): helps maintain normal water balance.
Pituitary dysfunction
Hypopituitarism Hyperpituitarism
Tumor Trauma Tumor: a particular hormone secreting tumor
Iscaemic necrosis
Intrapituitary hemorrhage Infiltation Irradiation
Pattern of the diseases is such that often the all the Usually secrete a single hormone Rarely secrete ≥2 hormones
hormone producing cells of the anterior pituitary gets manifestations are due to oversecretion of a particular
affected- simultaneously or one after another. hormone
So often leads to Panhypopituitarism
Pituitary tumor
Hormonally non functioning Hormonally functioning
nonsecretory benign adenomas Secretory adenomas: typically monoclonal
i.e. secrete a single hormone Rarely secrete ≥2 hormones
Expanding tumour E ndocrinopathy:
due to oversecretion of a particular pituitary hormone
Depending on size
TSH: Hyperthyrodism
Compressive effects
ACTH: Cushing syndrome
Adjacent Pituitary Hypofunctionning Hypopituitarism
LH& FSH: Hypergonadism
Outside Pituiatry Optic chiasm Bitemporal Hemianopia
GH: Acromegaly/Gigantism
ICT Headache
Prolactin: Hyperprolactinemia
stalk effect Hyperprolactinemia
Acromegaly can be an insidious disease. Symptoms, which may precede diagnosis by several years, can be divided
into the following groups:
(Random GH measurements, however, often are not diagnostic, because of the episodic secretion of GH, its short half-life,
and the overlap between GH concentration in individuals with acromegaly and individuals without the condition.)
3. Prolactin level: often high as pituitary adenomas co-secrete prolactin. However, a rise in prolactin may result from
stalk compression.
4. Pituitary adenomas may be associated with deficiencies of other pituitary hormones: so evaluation of the adrenal,
thyroid, and gonadal axis is important.
Imaging:
MRI of Pituitary/Sella turcica: Because of the relatively high incidence of nonfunctioning, incidentally discovered
pituitary adenomas, imaging studies should be obtained only after a firm biochemical diagnosis of has been made.
CT scans: If MRI findings of the sella are negative to localize tumors of ectopic secretion of GH: CT chest/abdo/pelvis
1. Transsphenoidal Surgery: to completely remove the tumor is the treatment of choice, and it may be curative.
2. Pharmacologic Therapy: recommended if GH hypersecretion is not normalized with surgery or surgery not feasible
• GH inhibitors: Somatostatin analogues: Octreotide Lanreotide, and Pasireotide
• GH receptor antagonists: Pegvisomant
Dopamine-receptor agonists: Bromocriptine, Cabergoline
3. Radiation Therapy: recommended if GH hypersecretion is not normalized with surgery.
Investigations: Pituitary function test: Thyroid function/Adrenal function/Gonadal hormone level estimation
Treatment: Hormone replacement:
Ovarian hormone: Estrogen/Progesterone
Thyroid hormone: Thyroxine
Adrenocortical hormones: Hydrocortisone or prednisone are generally used to replace ACTH and cortisol
Growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy
Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes insipidus (DI) is defined as the passage of large volumes (>3 L/24 hr) of dilute urine (< 300 mOsm/kg)
Types & causes:
Central Diabetes Insipidus (Neurogenic): It is due to abnormality of ADH or AVP.
Any disturbance or injury of the hypothalamus and/or posterior pituitary is a potential cause
• Tumors
• Trauma
• Infiltration: granulomatous diseases
• Idiopathic
Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus due to nonresponse of kidneys to ADH.
• Congenital
• Acquired: hypercalcemia, bilateral urinary tract obstruction, Lithium therapy, AKI and advanced CKD.
Primary Polydipsic Diabetes Insipidus: It occurs due to suppression of ADH by excessive fluid intake:
• Psychogenic
• Iatrogenic DI—excessive water drinking is prescribed as a treatment
Gestagenic Diabetes Insipidus: It occurs in pregnancy due to destruction of ADH by placental vasopressinase.
Gestational DI and primary polydipsia (dipsogenic DI); both are caused by deficiencies in AVP, but the deficiencies do
not result from a defect in the neurohypophysis or kidneys
Clinical features: The predominant manifestations of DI are:
Polyuria: The daily urine volume is relatively constant for each patient but is highly variable between patients (3-20 L)
Polydipsia
Nocturia
Dehydration
Investigations:
Confirmatory test: Water deprivation test:
In healthy individuals, water deprivation leads to a urinary osmolality that is 2-4 times greater than plasma osmolality.
The time required to achieve maximal urinary concentration ranges from 4-18 hours.
In central and nephrogenic DI, urinary osmolality will be less than 300 mOsm/kg after water deprivation.
After the administration of ADH, the osmolality will rise to more than 750 mOsm/kg in central DI but will not rise at all in
nephrogenic DI.
Treatment
Supportive: When oral intake is inadequate and hypernatremia is present, provide fluid replacement
Definitive: Desmopressin: 1-desamino-8-D-arginine Vasopressin (DDAVP): A synthetic analogue of ADH with potent
antidiuretic activity but no vasopressor activity
• Intranasal solution/ Intranasal spray: commonly used
• Parenteral for IV/IM injections/ Oral tablets: rarely used.
Parathyroid
In the nonpathologic state, PTH secretion enhances Ca 2+ absorption from gut and kidney and stimulates osteoclastic bone
resorption (transfer of calcium from bone fluid to the blood).
Hyperparathyroidism
Overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by one or more abnormal parathyroid glands.
Types:
1.Primary hyperparathyroidism: Hyperfunctioning of the parathyroid glands themselves due to an intrinsic disease.
There is oversecretion of PTH due to a 1.Parathyroid adenoma 2. Parathyroid hyperplasia 3. Parathyroid carcinoma
(RARE)
2.Secondary hyperparathyroidism is due to physiological (i.e. appropriate) secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by
the parathyroid glands in response to hypocalcemia. The most common causes are vitamin D deficiency and CKD
(Lack of vitamin D – reduced Ca absorption by the intestine – hypocalcemia - increased parathyroid hormone secretion. In CKD - failure to convert
vitamin D to active form in the kidney. The bone disease in secondary hyperparathyroidism caused by renal failure is termed renal osteodystrophy).
3.Tertiary hyperparathyroidism is seen in patients with long-term secondary hyperparathyroidism which eventually
leads to hyperplasia of the parathyroid glands and a loss of response to serum calcium levels i.e the gland becomes an
autonomous one.
Clinical features:
1.“hypercalcaemic” symptoms can include:
A- Appetite loss D- dehydration
Abdominal cramp/ pain E- Excessive thirst
B- Bodyache- joint/muscleache Emesis
C- Constipation F- Fatigue
Confusion Frequent urination
Convulsion
2. Potential Dangers of “missed” or untreated Primary Hyperparathyroidism:
• Bone fractures Osteoporosis and osteopenia
• Kidney stones
• Peptic ulcers
• Pancreatitis
• Nervous system complications: Psychosis/depression/dementia
Investigations:
Blood:
Serum Ca 2+ - elevated serum calcium and an “inappropriately”
serum PTH concentration- “inappropriately” elevated
Serum urea and creatinine (to assess kidney function)
Serum PO4 3- - Normal/Low/high
Urine test – 24 Hour urine calcium (to exclude a rare condition familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia)
Imaging:
1.USG abdomen: imaging of the kidneys (to exclude stone formation)
Imaging of the pancreas (to exclude pancreatitis)
2.Skeletal X-Rays and Bone densitometry scan (DEXA scan)- To determine the detrimental effect of prolonged PTH on the
skeleton.
3.Parathyroid imaging with Technetium 99m SESTAMIBI scan – This is a radiolabelled nuclear medicine scan of the
thyroid that preferentially localises a single abnormal parathyroid adenoma that may be amenable to minimally invasive
parathyroid surgery.
Treatment
Primary Hyperparathyrodism
1. Definitive treatment: Surgical excision of the abnormal parathyroid glands
2. Supportive treatment: Management of severe hypercalcemia in the acute setting
a.Emergency treatment: in case of dangerous hypercalcemia/symptomatic hypercalcemia
a.IV fluid: intravascular volume expansion with sodium chloride
b.Loop diuretics: Furosemide once the intravascular volume is restored.
c.Drugs: Calcitonin and IV bisphosphonate as a temporary measure prior to surgery
b. Long term treatment:
Bisphosphonates: Alendronate/Risedronate/Zolendronate, has been shown to improve the BMD at the spine and hip
BMD in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. No significant change in parathyroid hormone, calcium has been
seen. Treatment with a bisphosphonate such as alendronate can be considered in patients with hyperparathyroidism and
low BMD who cannot, or will not, undergo surgery.
Calcimimetic drug: Cinacalcet activates the calcium-sensing receptor and inhibit parathyroid cell function. Cinacalcet
results in reduction of PTH levels, reduction and even normalization of serum calcium.
Hypoparathyroidism
Underactivity of the Parathyroid glands with underproduction of Parathyroid hormone.
Clinical features
Hypocalcemic manifestations:
1. Muscle cramps involving the back and legs.
2. Insidious hypocalcemia may cause mild encephalopathy and should be suspected in patients with unexplained
dementia, depression, or psychosis.
3. Tetany characteristically results from severe hypocalcemia but can result from reduction in the ionized fraction of
serum calcium without marked hypocalcemia, as occurs in severe alkalosis. Tetany is characterized by the following:
Sensory symptoms consisting of paresthesias of the lips, tongue, fingers, and feet
Carpopedal spasm, which may be prolonged and painful
Generalized muscle aching
Spasm of facial musculature
Tetany may be overt with spontaneous symptoms or latent and requiring provocative tests to elicit-
Chvostek sign is an involuntary twitching of the facial muscles elicited by a light tapping of the facial nerve just anterior
to the exterior auditory meatus.
Trousseau sign is the precipitation of carpal spasm by reduction of the blood supply to the hand with a tourniquet or BP
cuff inflated to 20 mm Hg above systolic BP applied to the forearm for 3 min.
Treatment
IV Calcium- Calcium gluconate
Recombinant human parathyroid hormone
Diabetes Mellitus
Syndrome characterized by inappropriate hyperglycemia with an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin secretion
NB:
Asymptomatic individuals with a single abnormal test should have the test repeated to confirm the diagnosis unless the
result is unequivocally abnormal.
FPG is defined as glucose estimated after no caloric intake for at least 8-12 hours
Types/Classification
1. Type 1 diabetes: due to autoimmune β-cell destruction, usually leading to absolute insulin deficiency
2. Type 2 diabetes: due to a progressive loss of β-cell insulin secretion frequently on the background of insulin resistance
3. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM): diabetes diagnosed in the second or third trimester of pregnancy that was not
clearly overt diabetes prior to gestation
4. Specific types of diabetes due to other causes:
Neonatal diabetes
Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young [MODY]
Secondary diabetes:
5.Secondary Diabetes: DM that results as a consequence of another medical condition.
Chronic Pancreatic disease: Diseases of the exocrine pancreas – Chronic Pancreatitis/ Cystic fibrosis
Drug induced: Corticosteroid
Endocrinopathies: Cushing syndrome/ Acromegaly/Pheochromocytoma
Ferrous: Hemochromatosis
Type 2 diabetes:
Results from predominantly insulin resistance with relative insulin deficiency. This form of diabetes frequently goes
undiagnosed for many years because hyperglycemia develops gradually and in earlier stages is often not severe enough
for the patient to develop any of the hyperosmolar symptoms of diabetes. Nevertheless such patients are at an increased
risk of developing macrovascular and microvascular complications and these may be present even at the time of
diagnosis. However, in the course of time they also become Insulinopenic & are likely to require insulin for better
glycemic control.
Glycemic control Treatment of complications Treatment of atherosclerotic risk factors (if present)
depends on complication(s) Activity status: exercise lack
Lifestyle Pharmacotherapy BP: Hypertension
modification 1.Oral hyoglycemics BMI: obesity 1. Lifestyle modifin
1. Diet 2. Insulin C igeratte smoking 2. Drugs
2. Exercise Dyslipidemia
Glycemic control
Lifestyle modification:
A. Diet:
1. Energy (calories): 25-30 cal/kg IBW - reduce in obese and increase in underweight
2. Protein 0.8 g/kg body weight.
3. Fats: 20-25% of total calories
4. Carbohydrates: 55-60% of total calories. Encourage complex carbohydrates i.e. mainly grains, cereals, pulses.
B. Exercise: Regular physical exercise
Pharmacotherapy/Medications:
1. Oral Hypoglycemic agents (OHAs)/Oral Antidiabetic drug( OAD)
1. Increasing insulin secretion:
• Sulfonylureas(SU): Glimepiride/Gliclazide/Glyburide
• Meglitinide analogs: Repaglinide/Mitiglinide
• D-Phenylalanine derivative: Nateglinide
2. Reduction of insulin resistance (Insulin sensitisers): Thiazolidinediones (TZD): Pioglitazone/ Rosiglitazone
3. Reduction of hepatic glucose output: Biguanides: Metformin
4. Reduced carbohydrate absorption: Alpha glucosidase inhibitors(AGI): Voglibose/Acarbose
5. Incretins:
GLP1 receptor agonist: Exenatide/Liraglutide/Lixisenatide
DPP-4 Inhibitors (Gliptins): Vidagliptin/Linagliptin/Saxagliptin
6. SGLT 2 inhibitors: Canaglifozin/Dapaglifozin/ Empagliflozin
2. Insulin
Basal insulin is the background insulin that is normally supplied by the pancreas and is present 24 hours a day, whether
or not the person eats.
Bolus insulin refers to the extra amounts of insulin the pancreas would naturally make in response to glucose taken in
through food.
Types:
Short acting: 1.Regular
Rapid acting: 1. Aspart 2. Lispro 3. Glulicine
Intermediate acting: Neutral protamine hagedorn (NPH)
Premixed: Intermediate acting Insulin + Short/Rapid acting Insulin: 70:30/ 75:25/ 50:50
• NPH+ Regular
• Insulin aspart protamine suspension + Insulin aspart
• Insulin Lispro protamine suspension + Insulin Lispro
Long acting 1.Glargine 2. Detemir 3. Degludec
Intemediate/Long-acting “basal” insulins begin working in 1-2 hours but are released slowly so they can last up to 24
hours, providing that background insulin that is needed around the clock.
Fast-acting “bolus” insulins generally begin working within 15-30 minutes. Each of these bolus insulins is designed to be
taken just before a meal and have a duration of up to 5- 6 hours, so they counteract postprandial glycemic surge
Complications of DM
1. Acute- those develop over hours- days 2. Chronic- those develop over years
a. Metabolic complications- a. Macrovasculopathy
a. DKA a. Cerebrovascular disease
b. HHS b. Coronary artery disease
c. Hypoglycaemia c. Peripheral vascular disease
b. Acute presentation of a chronic complication
b. Microvasculopathy
a. CVC/TIA
a. Retinopathy
b. Myocardial Ischaemic event
b. Neuropathy
c. Acute ischaemic limb
c. Nephropathy
Diabetic Retinopathy
It is an ocular manifestation of diabetes which affects most of the DM patients who have had diabetes for ≥20 years
C/F
Initial stages- generally asymptomatic
Advanced stages- floaters, blurred vision & progressive loss of visual acuity
Signs of diabetic retinopathy:
Stages
1. Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy
Presence of microaneurysm(s)-due to capillary wall outpouching
Dot and blot hemorrhages- due to microaneurysms rupture
Hard exudates- due to leakage of serum lipids and proteins from the vessels
Cotton-wool spots: due to infarctions from occlusion of arterioles
2. Proliferative diabetic retinopathy- can be vision threatening
Neovascularisation: hallmark of PDR
Pre retinal hemorrhages: pockets of blood within the space between the retina and the posterior hyaloid face
Vitreous hemorrhage
Retinal detachment
3. Maculopathy- Can occur at any stage
Macular Oedema
Investigations
1. Glycemic assessment- FBS/PPBS/HbA1c
2. Fundus Fluorescein angiography (FFA)
3. Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
Treatment:
a. Strict/ Tight Glycaemic control
b. Ophthalmological Rx- Urgent referral IF PDR or Maculopathy OR impaired vision
1. Pharmacotherapy
Triamcinolone: Administered intravitreally
Bevacizumab/ Ranibizumab: Administered intravitreally- reduces macular edema and neovascularization
2. Laser photocoagulation- Panretinal photocoagulation is used in the treatment of PDR.
3. Regular Ophthalmological screening- FOR ALL DIABETICS starting 6-8 years after the onset of DM
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), affecting as many as 50% of patients
with type 1 and type 2 DM
Types
Sensory Neuropathy- commonest type
Numbness or deadness- typically in distal part of the extremities
Loss of balance- especially with the eyes closed
Painless injuries due to loss of sensation
Painful Neuropathy- burning/prickling/tingling/electric shock like feelings
Peripheral neuropathy can lead to foot ulcers and leg amputation
Foot ulcer shows signs of infection- thick yellow exudate + erythema + fever + necrotic tissue
O/E impaired superficial + deep sensation in the distal part of the extremity to start with (Glove and stocking)
Motor Neuropathy
Distal or proximal or more focal weakness
LMN signs in the distribution of the affected nerve(s)
In the most common presentation of diabetic neuropathy with symmetrical sensorimotor involvement Sensory loss+
minor weakness of the toes and feet may be seen; severe weakness is uncommon
Autonomic neuropathy- may involve
Cardiovascular- Sinus tachycardia/Orthostatic hypotension/Sinus arrhythmia/Syncope or Presyncope
Gastrointestinal- Abdominal pain/Bloating/ Constipation/ Diarrhoea/Emesis/ Fecal incontinence
Genitourinary- Poor urinary stream/Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying/Straining to void/Erectile Dysfunction
Investigations
Glycaemic assessment- FBG + PPBG+ HbA1c
For Neuropathy- Electrophysiological tests - NCV & EMG
Imaging studies- MRI of the Cervical and/or Thoracic and/or Lumbar regions may help to exclude another cause for
symptoms mimicking diabetic neuropathy.
Management
1. Awareness- patient to be made aware of potential foot complication
2. Foot care- regular foot examinations
3. If necessary, refer the patient to a podiatrist.
4. Infected diabetic foot ulcer or gangrene
• Antibiotic
• Antiseptic dressing
• Surgical Debridement
• Amputation
5. Painful Neuropathy- Gabapentin/ Pregabalin/Amitryptiline
6. Erectile dysfunction- Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors- Sildenafil/Tadanafil
7. Orthostatic hypotension
• Increase dietary fluid and salt intake
• Compression stockings may help
Diabetic Foot
Complication arising due to compromise of the blood supply from macrovascular disease often in association with lack of
sensation because of neuropathy.
C/F- Predisposes persons with DM to foot infections.
Signs and symptoms
1. Peripheral Vascular disease related manifestations
• Claudication/Poor distal pulses/ severe cases ischaemic ulcer
2. Peripheral Neuropathy related manifestations
• Numbness or deadness- typically in distal part of the extremities
• Loss of balance- especially with the eyes closed
• Painless injuries due to loss of sensation
• Painful Neuropathy- burning/prickling/tingling/electric shock like feelings
3. Diabetic foot infections typically take one of the following forms
• Neuropathic ulcers +/- secondary infection
• Cellulitis- Tender, erythematous skin
• Deep skin and soft-tissue infections- painful induration of the soft tissues in the extremity Wound discharge is
usually not present
• Osteomyelitis- pain at the site of the involved bone. Deep, penetrating ulcers and deep sinus tracts are usually
located between the toes or on the plantar surface of the foot.
Investigation
1. TC, ESR/CRP- elevated if infection
2. Aspirated exudate- gram stain/CS
3. Blood culture results may be positive
4. Osteomyelitis- X-ray
5. US Doppler +/- Peripheral Angiography- for Ischaemic limb
Management- Treatment of diabetic foot infections varies by type
1. Cellulitis – antibiotics
2. Deep skin and soft-tissue infections – Antibiotic but additional debridement is usually indicated
3. Osteomyelitis – Antibiotic
Surgical debridement is essential
Amputation- if necessary
4. Ischaemic limb- Amputation, if necessary
Diabetic Nephropathy
Syndrome characterized by persistent albuminuria +/- Progressive decline GFR +/- Elevated BP
C/F
1. Edema secondary to hypoalbuminemia
2. Features of CKD
4. Patients may have physical findings associated with long-standing diabetes mellitus like
• Hypertension • Evidence of diabetic neuropathy
• Peripheral vascular occlusive disease • Evidence of DM Retinopathy
Investigations
1. 24-hour urinalysis/Urinary ACR: Microalbuminuria or Macroalbuminuria
2. Blood- Urea, Cr, FBG, PPBG, HbA1c
3. USG KUB- For kidney size- normal to increased in the initial stages & later shrunken with CKD.
4. Renal biopsy is not routinely indicated especially if there is typical history and a progression typical of the disease. It is
indicated if the diagnosis is in doubt or if other kidney disease is suggested.
Treatment
Tight Glycaemic control Tight control of Dyslipidemia
ACE-i/ARB Supportive treatment for CKD- if established CKD
Tight BP control
HbA1c
Haemoglobin A1c (Glycated Hb) reflects the average blood glucose concentration over the course of the RBC lifespan,
roughly 120 days in normal individuals. It provides different but complementary information to a single glucose
concentration.
Symptoms
1. May be a known case of Ty-1 DM or undiagnosed DM- therefore may give recent h/o Wt. loss+/-Polyphagia +/-
Polyuria- these are due to underlying DM
2. Dehydration related manifestations
• Altered sensorium • Dry mucous membranes
• BP: Hypotension • Decreased skin turgor
• CRT: prolonged • Extremity:Tachycardia
• Disorientation • Excess thirst
• Dry skin
Management
Goals/Aims
1. Rx of Dehydration- Fluid resuscitation 3. Correction of K-imbalance- KCl
2. Reversal of the Ketoacidosis- Alkalinising agent- 4. Reduction of Abnormal glucose- Insulin
NaHCO3 5. Rx Associated precipitating cause/factor, if any
1. Dehydration Rx- Fluid resuscitation- Rate/amount depends on volume status + cardiac and renal status
2. K- imbalance- KCL infusion should be started from the beginning as Insulin will start to shift K rapidly
into cells causing Extracellular Hypokalemia- KCl is added to the infusion fluid
If K is greater than 6 mEq/L- no K supplement If K is 3-4.5 mEq/L- KCl 20 mEq/h
If K is 4.5-6 mEq/L- KCl 10 mEq/h
Monitor Potassium level regularly
3. Ketoacidosis-
NaHCO3 infusion only if decompensated acidosis starts to threaten the patient's life.
Rapid administration of NaHCO3 can cause cerebral oedema particularly in children.
4. Abnormal Glucose- Insulin Infusion- Monitor blood glucose at bedside every hour till it’s stabilized
Initially Continuous IV Short acting Insulin infusion using an infusion pump
5. Antibiotic- Empiric antibiotics on suspicion of infection
6. Anticoagulation- Prophylactic Heparin- Severe dehydration can cause hyperviscocity precipitating DVT
7. After the patient is stable further/a long term management plan of DM should be drawn up.
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS)…..V. Important
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is an acute, potentially life-threatening metabolic complication of diabetes
characterized by hyperglycemia, hyperosmolarity, dehydration without significant ketoacidosis & ketonuria that mainly
occurs in patients with Type 2 DM and rarely in Type 1 DM.
HHS was previously termed hyperosmolar nonketotic coma (HONC); however, the terminology was changed because
coma is found in very few pts of HHS.
Background of the patient- Pts are usually Type 2-DM pts- hitherto (until now) undiagnosed or a known case.
Precipitating Factor- May be present and if present is usually one of these
1. Missing dose(s) of Insulin/OHA 3. Critical Illness- Stroke/MI/PE/underlying
2. Infection CKD/ CHF are at increased risk
osmotic diuresis
dehydration
(Unlike DKA, in HHS significant ketoacidosis DOES NOT occur, but the reason for this is NOT CLEAR. Contributing
factors likely include the availability of insulin particularly in Portal circulation in amounts sufficient to inhibit
ketogenesis but insufficient to prevent hyperglycemia. In addition, levels of counter-regulatory hormones like GH are
found to be lower in patients with HHS than in those with DKA.)
Symptoms-HHS usually develops over a course of days to weeks, unlike diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which develops
more rapidly, over the course of a few days. Often, a preceding illness results in several days of increasing dehydration.
1. May be a known case of Ty-2 DM or undiagnosed DM- therefore may give recent h/o Wt. loss+/-Polyphagia +/-
Polyuria- these are due to underlying DM
2. Dehydration related manifestations
• Altered sensorium • Decreased skin turgor
• BP: Hypotension • Extremity:Tachycardia
• CRT: prolonged • Excess thirst
• Disorientation
• Dry skin 3. K-----ABSENT
• Dry mucous membranes
4. Abnormal ↑↑ Glucose related manifestations-
• Polyuria/Polydipsia/Polyphagia
5. Associated ppting factor (if any) related manifestations
• H/o missing Insulin doses recently
• Active infection- Fever/Chill+ rigor+ Symptoms of focal infection- URTI/LRTI/UTI etc.
• Any other critical illness
Investigations
Tests To look for/Aim of the test/Potential abnormality
1. CBG - High- Immediately and thereafter at regular interval
2. Hb,TC,DC,CRP- ↑TC/CRP- Infection
3. Ur,Cr- ↑- Dehydration
4. Electrolytes-Na, K, Cl Dyselectrolytemia
5. ABG No metabolic Acidosis- BUT may occur due to associated illness eg. sepsis
6. Ketone levels No Ketoniemia
7. Urine Ketone No Ketonuria
8. Sepsis screen- If febrile or infection is suspected
CxR/Urine- R.E/M.E/C.S/Blood C.S
9. ECG/Cardiac enzymes- if MI is suspected
10. CT Brain ( IF pt is drowsy)- to rule out CVA
Many of these tests particularly blood biochemistry are to be repeated at regular interval till pt. become stable
Management
Goals/Aims
1. Rx of Dehydration- Fluid resuscitation 3. Reduction of Abnormal glucose - Insulin
2. Correction of K-imbalance- KCl 4. Rx Associated precipitating cause/factor, if any
1. Dehydration Rx- Fluid resuscitation- Rate/amount depends on volume status + cardiac and renal status
2. K- imbalance- KCL infusion should be started from the beginning as Insulin will start to shift K rapidly
into cells causing Extracellular Hypokalemia- KCl is added to the infusion fluid
If K is greater than 6 mEq/L- no K supplement If K is 3-4.5 mEq/L- KCl 20 mEq/h
If K is 4.5-6 mEq/L- KCl 10 mEq/h
Monitor Potassium level regularly
3. Abnormal Glucose- Insulin Infusion- Monitor blood glucose hourly at bedside till it’s stabilized
Initially Continuous IV Short acting Insulin infusion using an infusion pump
4. Antibiotic- Empiric antibiotics on suspicion of infection
5. Anticoagulation- Prophylactic Heparin- Severe dehydration can cause hyperviscocity precipitating DVT
6. After the patient is stable, further/a long term management plan of DM should be drawn up- adjust Insulin and/ or
OHAs on the basis of glucose level.
OHA/OAD
There are 5 categories of OHAs/OADs
1. Increase sensitivity to insulin (ISAs- Insulin-sensitizing agents) + Decreased Hepatic Glucose output
• Metformin
• Thiazolidinediones: Rosiglitazone; Pioglitazone
2. Provoke Pancreas to produce more Insulin (Secretagogue)
• Sulfonylurea: Glimepiride; Glipizide; Gliclazide; Glibenclamide; Glyburide
• Meglitinides: Repaglinide; Nateglinide
3. Incretin like effects: Dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors (DPP4 –tors):
• Vidagliptin/Sitagliptin/Linagliptin/Saxagliptin
• GLP-1 analogues- Exenatide; Liraglutide
4. Inhibits Intestinal Glucose absorption: α-glucosidase inhibitors: Voglibose; Acarbose
5. Inhibits Renal Glucose absorption: Inhibitor of Sodium-Glucose Linked Transporter (SGLT)
• Canagliflozin; Dapagliflozin; Empagliflozin
Indications of OHA- Type 2 DM- either a single agent or combination of drugs
The choice of the OHA(s) depend on following factors
Age Education status about Diabetes
BMI Financial condition
Complications Glycemic status
Contraindication Hypoglycemia risk
Duration of Diabetes
SGLT 2 inhibitor
Sodium-dependent glucose cotransporters/ sodium-glucose linked transporter (SGLT) are a family of glucose
transporter found in the Small intestinal mucosa (SGLT1) and the Proximal tubule of the nephron. They contribute
to renal glucose reabsorption.
Mechanism of glycaemic control
These drugs by inhibiting subtype 2 sodium-glucose transport protein (SGLT2), which is responsible for at least 90% of
the renal glucose reabsorption lowers blood glucose level. Additionally water is eliminated by osmotic diuresis, resulting
in a lowering of blood pressure.
Indication
As an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycaemic control in adults with T2 DM, not recommended in patients with
type 1 diabetes mellitus or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Drugs Canagliflozin; Dapagliflozin;Empagliflozin
S/E
Hypotension
Ketoacidosis
Impairment in Renal Function
Hyperkalemia
Hypoglycemia (with concomitant use with Insulin and Insulin secretagogues)
Incretin
Incretins are a group of GI hormones that decrease blood glucose levels.
Functions:
1. Stimulates increase amount of insulin released during postprandial state
2. Slow the rate of absorption of nutrients into the blood stream by reducing gastric emptying
3. Inhibit Glucagon release from the alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans
Physiology
The two main incretin like molecules are
1. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)
2. Gastric inhibitory peptide: also called Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide or GIP
Both GLP-1 and GIP are inactivated by Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)
GLP 1 agonist
Investigations:
Blood:
1. Electrolyte: Na, K: typically Recurrent Hypokalemia
2. Aldosterone Renin ration (ARR) (Low plasma renin plus High plasma aldosterone concentration)
ARR value in an individual that is higher than the cutoff indicates primary hyperaldosteronism
3. Imaging: CT Adrenals
4. Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) to make the distinction between unilateral and bilateral adrenal disease
Treatment
Surgical: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for patients with unilateral PA (ie, aldosterone-producing adenoma [APA] or
unilateral adrenal hyperplasia
Medical: If a patient is unable or unwilling to undergo surgery or bilateral disease: medical treatment with
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist: Spironolactone/ Eplerenone
Dwarfism
Dwarfism generally defined as an adult height of 4 feet 10 inches or less.
2 broad categories:
Disproportionate dwarfism- If body size is disproportionate- very short trunk and shortened (but disproportionately
large) limbs with head disproportionately large compared with the body. Examples are
Achondroplasia
Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasias
Diastrophic dysplasia
Almost all people with disproportionate dwarfism have normal intellectual capacities
Proportionate dwarfism A body is proportionately small if all parts of the body are small to the same degree and appear
to be proportioned like a body of average stature. So the head, trunk and limbs are all small, but they're proportionate to
each other. Examples are
Growth hormone deficiency
Turner syndrome