Thyroid storm-induced cardiovascular complications and modalities of therapy: Up-to-date review

Core Tip

Core Tip: Endocrine emergencies are potentially reversible clinical entities if identified and picked- up early. These emergencies typically arise from profound dysregulation of the hormone axis, manifesting as either severe hormone deficiency or excess. A thyroid storm, also known as a hyperthyroid crisis or thyrotoxic storm, is a rare but life-threatening endocrine emergency that occurs because of undiagnosed or inadequately treated hyperthyroidism. Thyroid hormones are fundamental to cardiovascular homeostasis, mediated by genomic and non-genomic effects. Thyroid hormone receptors are present in the myocardium and vascular endothelial tissues; thereby, changes in the circulating Thyroid hormone concentration modulate the end-organ activities. This could lead to serious consequences such as cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and life-threatening arrhythmia, ultimately contributing to cardiocirculatory collapse and cardiac death. This review summarizes the current knowledge of pathophysiology and pharmacological and mechanical interventions, ranging from beta-blockers to mechanical and surgical interventions.