Thyroidectomy in a two-year old for graves' disease.

INTRODUCTION

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism in children is graves' disease - an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies stimulate the thyrotropin receptor to signal growth thyroid gland by increasing thyroid hormone synthesis and release. It can be treated with medical therapy, radioactive iodine, or surgery.

PRESENTATION OF CASE: JD was a two year old male who presented with severe diarrhea and diffuse neck enlargement. Laboratory work up was consistent with graves' disease.

DISCUSSION: Despite maximal outpatient and inpatient treatment with methimazole, atenolol, prednisone, and SSKI, he suffered persistent thyrotoxicosis. He underwent near-total thyroidectomy without complication.

CONCLUSION

This case is notable as it may represent the youngest patient in the literature who has undergone thyroidectomy for graves' disease.