7314 The Thyroid Tetralogy: Hypothyroidism, Graves' Disease, AFTN, and Thyroid Cancer in a Single Patient
Authors: Sajid Fatima , Mohammadrezaei Fatemeh , Tiwari Kripa , Shapiro Joshua , Mohsin Fizza , Lin Thinzar 
Published: October 2024

Disclosure: F. Sajid: None. F. Mohammadrezaei: None. K. Tiwari: None. J. Shapiro: None. F. Mohsin: None. T. Lin: None.

Introduction: In this case, we explore a rare and complex situation involving a patient's shift from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism. This transition led to the diagnosis of Marine Lenhart Syndrome (MLS), an uncommon condition characterized by the coexistence of Graves' disease and autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs). Adding to the complexity of the case, the patient was also diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Case Presentation: A 47-year-old woman with a history of hypothyroidism, treated with levothyroxine for 14 years, presented with palpitations, weight loss, and insomnia for a few months. Her levothyroxine dose was gradually reduced and eventually discontinued by her primary care physician due to low TSH and high free T4 levels. Post-discontinuation, her symptoms were improving. Laboratory tests showed TSH 0.01 mIU/mL (0.39-4.08), Thyroglobulin (TG) 72 ng/mL (3-40), Free T4 2.5 ng/dL (0.8-1.8), Free T3 11.5 ng/dL (0.2-0.5ng/dL). Furthermore, Thyrotropin Receptor Antibody (TRAb), and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (TPO Ab) were positive leading to a diagnosis of Graves' Disease and initiation of Methimazole. After three months on Methimazole, her TSH remained suppressed with normalized free T4 and T3 levels. A thyroid ultrasound revealed bilateral nodules, with a calcified well-circumscribed nodule in the right mid-pole. A Radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) scan showed a hyperfunctioning right mid-pole thyroid nodule. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy was consistent with Bethesda V, suggestive of possible malignancy. Consequently, she underwent a total thyroidectomy, with pathology confirming multifocal classic PTC, stage pT1bN0. Post-surgery, she developed hypothyroidism and was started on levothyroxine. Four weeks later, her TSH remain suppressed, other thyroid function tests and calcium levels were within normal range: TSH 0.01 mIU/mL, Free T4 1.0 ng/dL, TG 4.6 ng/mL, Thyroglobulin antibodies 1 IU/mL (less than or equal to 1), PTH intact 43 pg/mL (16-77), and Calcium 8.9 mg/dL (8.6-10.2). Conclusion: This case represents a complex and unusual medical scenario where a patient transitioned from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism, ultimately leading to the diagnosis of MLS in conjunction with PTC. The exact mechanism behind this transition is not fully understood. In the management of hypothyroidism, adjustments in thyroxine dosage are common, but significant tapering of the dose should prompt further investigation. The presence of PTC in AFTNs is considered rare, as AFTNs are typically characterized as hot nodules, implying they are hyperfunctioning and generally considered to be less likely malignant compared to cold nodules. This case underscores the need for comprehensive evaluation and follow-up in patients with thyroid disorders, especially when there is a change in thyroid function or the presence of nodules.

Presentation: 6/3/2024