Treatment of thyroid storm includes all, EXCEPT ?
**Core Concept**
Thyroid storm, also known as thyrotoxic crisis, is a life-threatening complication of untreated or inadequately treated hyperthyroidism. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent mortality. Treatment involves a combination of measures to manage the hypermetabolic state, correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and control thyroid hormone levels.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The management of thyroid storm involves several key components. **Option C:** administering iodine is correct because it can help decrease thyroid hormone production by inhibiting the release of pre-formed thyroid hormones into the circulation. **Option A:** using beta-blockers is also correct as they can help control symptoms such as tachycardia and tremors by blocking the effects of excess thyroid hormones on the adrenergic receptors. **Option D:** administering corticosteroids is correct as they can help control inflammation and may also have a role in managing the hypermetabolic state.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** administering propylthiouracil (PTU) is incorrect because, while it is a medication used to treat hyperthyroidism, its use in thyroid storm is limited due to the risk of hepatotoxicity.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key aspect of managing thyroid storm is to avoid administering radioactive iodine, as it can increase the risk of thyroid storm by releasing large amounts of pre-formed thyroid hormones into the circulation.
**Correct Answer: B. Propylthiouracil is typically avoided in thyroid storm due to the risk of hepatotoxicity.**