Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog with severe hypothermia treated with IV levothyroxine
By Henik, R A & Dixon, R M·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2000·Department of Medical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Intravenous administration of levothyroxine for treatment of suspected myxedema coma complicated by severe hypothermia in a dog.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 7-year-old male English Coonhound was brought in with severe lethargy and dangerously low body temperature, suspected to be myxedema coma due to severe hypothyroidism. The veterinarian treated him with a combination of warming techniques, intravenous and oral levothyroxine, oxygen, and fluids. This approach helped restore his metabolic function and gradually warmed him up. The dog responded well to the treatment and showed signs of recovery.
People also search for: dog myxedema coma treatment · English Coonhound low body temperature · hypothyroidism in dogs symptoms
Abstract
A 7-year-old male English Coonhound with suspected myxedema coma complicated by severe hypothermia and metabolic abnormalities was treated with a combination of active external and core rewarming techniques, i.v. and oral administration of levothyroxine, supplemental oxygen, and administration of fluids (0.9% NaCl solution). Myxedema coma develops as a consequence of severe hypothyroidism and is characterized by a hypometabolic, stuporous state. Myxedema coma is associated with a high mortality rate, and most reported cases have involved Doberman Pinschers. Intravenous administration of levothyroxine can be used successfully in combination with oral administration to restore normal metabolic function and assist in warming and thermoregulation, although dosages should be conservative to avoid adverse cardiovascular effects.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10707687/