All are seen In myxoedema coma except –
**Core Concept**
Myxoedema coma is a life-threatening complication of untreated or inadequately treated hypothyroidism, characterized by severe hypothermia, altered mental status, and often cardiac arrest. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Myxoedema coma is classically associated with a combination of hypothermia (usually below 32°C), altered mental status (ranging from confusion to coma), and bradycardia (a heart rate of less than 40 beats per minute). The combination of these symptoms is often referred to as the "hypothermic triad" of myxoedema coma.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** While peripheral edema is a common feature of hypothyroidism, it is not a specific characteristic of myxoedema coma. Peripheral edema is seen in many other conditions, including heart failure and nephrotic syndrome.
**Option B:** Hypertension is not typically seen in myxoedema coma. In fact, bradycardia and hypotension are more common.
**Option C:** Hyperkalemia is a potential complication of myxoedema coma due to the release of potassium from damaged cells. However, it is not a distinguishing feature of this condition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Myxoedema coma is often precipitated by a combination of factors, including infection, trauma, and medications that interfere with thyroid function. Prompt recognition and treatment, including the administration of thyroid hormone, are critical to improving outcomes.
**Correct Answer: B. Hypertension**