Atrial fibrillation induced by post-parathyroidectomy transient thyrotoxicosis.

We describe a 59-year-old Japanese woman with post-parathyroidectomy transient thyrotoxicosis and atrial fibrillation. She underwent parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism due to chronic renal failure. Three days after surgery, she complained of palpitation and chest pain due to atrial fibrillation. Results of thyroid function tests were compatible with thyrotoxicosis. Twelve days after parathyroidectomy, the elevated level of free thyroxine decreased spontaneously to the normal range. These features were compatible with post-parathyroidectomy transient thyrotoxicosis. No further recurrences of thyrotoxicosis or atrial fibrillation were observed for one year. This is the first report of atrial fibrillation induced by post-parathyroidectomy transient thyrotoxicosis.