Hypothyroidism as the cause of reversible dilated cardiomyopathy: A case report

Abstract

Introduction. The causes of dilated cardiomyopathy can be divided into ischemic and nonischemic. Although the importance of thyroid hormones for proper functioning of the cardiovascular system is well known, dilated cardiomyopathy is a rare presentation of hypothyroidism. Case Report. This is a case report of a 38-year-old man admitted to the Intensive Cardiac Care Unit with signs and symptoms of advanced heart failure. Dilated cardiomyopathy was established by echocardiography, while blood test showed highly elevated levels of thyroid stimulating hormone and decreased levels of free triiodothyronine and free thyroxine. The ejection fraction was significantly improved with levothyroxine replacement therapy. Conclusion. Hypothyroidism should always be considered as the cause of dilated cardiomyopathy. Thyroid hormone tests should be performed in all patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.