A Case of Graves' Disease Presenting with Chorea

Abstract

Hyperthyroidism is invariably accompanied by nervous system dysfunction. Specifically, irritability, emotional lability, and hyperkinesia are the signs and symptoms most frequently observed. In rare instances, chorea and/or choreoathetosis are associated with hyperthyroidism. Full evaluation for the etiology of chorea is necessary prior to initiating treatment. We recently encountered a 42-year-old female who initially presented with hyperthyroidism and showed subsequent development of progressive generalized chorea. The patient was diagnosed with chorea secondary to Graves’ disease after exclusion of other causes of chorea and improved after the initiation of pulse administration of intravenous methylprednisolone sodium succinate (Solu-medrol ® , 1000 mg for 5 days) and oral antithyroid medication. This treatment strategy resulted in the resolution of involuntary movements. The steroid administration was eventually tapered, and the patient has been maintained on antithyroid and steroid therapy with considerable success since the initiation of treatment. (J Korean Endocr Soc 23:342~346, 2008)