An unusual cause of epidemic thyrotoxicosis

Abstract

We describe the case of four patients consulting for headache and tachycardia of brutal onset. Their biological data were compatible with primary hyperthyroidism with low TSH and high T4 serum levels. Serum thyroglobulin level was low and Tc-scintigraphy showed decreased uptake with a homogenous pattern. These results allowed to conclude a thyrotoxicosis caused by thyroid hormones intake. History taking revealed consumption of beef neck meat containing all or parts of the bovine thyroid gland. Evolution was favourable with beta-blockers. A literature review of « hamburger thyrotoxicosis » is presented.

Keywords:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Hamburger thyrotoxicosis