Hyperthyroidism Presenting With Mania and Psychosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Graves' disease accounts for one of the most common causes of thyrotoxicosis. Most patients with Graves' disease present with classic signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Psychosis and mood symptoms secondary to hyperthyroidism are rare. Here we report the case of a 37-year-old male with a history of Graves' disease with poor medication adherence who presented to the emergency department with psychotic features and hyperexcitability. He had excessive agitation, paranoia, and hyperactivity requiring restraints. He also endorsed insomnia and weight loss. He was admitted to the inpatient unit, and laboratory investigations were significant for a low thyroid-stimulating hormone, and elevated T3, T4, thyroid-stimulating antibodies, and thyroid peroxidase antibodies. The initial assessment was a primary psychiatric illness. The patient never had a personal or family history of psychiatric illness. Psychiatry and endocrinology were consulted for further recommendations. The patient was started on methimazole 30 mg, propranolol 100 mg, and hydrocortisone 100 mg, which resolved his symptoms.