Acute Thyroid Disorders

Abstract

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are found more commonly in later life. Hypothyroidism occurs mainly in the sixth decade, while hyperthyroidism is most common in the fifth and sixth decades. Both conditions predominantly affect women. Despite this relatively high prevalence of thyroid disorders in the elderly, the diagnosis of either condition is often missed, owing to the absence of the specific clinical features usual in younger patients. In particular, the symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism may be attributed to the effects of ageing and pass unrecognized by the patient and doctor. In addition, the frequently insidious onset of hypothyroidism further compounds the situation.