Coexistence of Graves’ disease with acute rheumatic fever treated as thyroid storm in young Thai patient

Abstract

Objectives This report presents a case of acute onset of chorea, concurrent Graves’ disease, and acute rheumatic fever in an 8-year-old female patient. Case presentation The child had intermittent involuntary movement of all extremities and both eyes for 4 days, with a previous history of increased appetite, weight lost, and heat intolerance over a period of two months. Physical examination revealed fever, tachycardia, exophthalmos, eyelid retraction, as well as diffused thyroid enlargement. Initial clinical features and thyroid function testing suggested a thyroid storm due to Graves’ disease. Methimazole, propranolol, potassium iodide (SSKI), and dexamethasone were prescribed. Congestive heart failure developed after propranolol and cardiovascular re-evaluation and Revised Jones criteria suggested acute rheumatic fever. Chorea was successfully treated with pulse methylprednisolone. Conclusions We reported Graves’ disease patients with acute rheumatic fever simulating a thyroid storm. The underlying cardiac disease must be considered, especially where chorea and congestive heart failure are present.