# From Functional Disorder to a Life-Threatening Emergency: A Rare Adolescent Case of Thyrotoxicosis

## TL;DR

A 16-year-old with untreated Graves' disease developed a life-threatening thyroid storm triggered by influenza, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and management.

## Contribution

This case emphasizes the rare but severe progression of thyrotoxicosis to thyroid storm in adolescents and the role of infection as a precipitating factor.

## Key findings

- Thyroid storm was confirmed in a 16-year-old with untreated Graves' disease.
- Influenza B infection acted as a precipitating factor for the thyroid storm.
- Antithyroid therapy and intensive care improved the patient's condition.

## Abstract

Thyroid storm is a rare but life-threatening endocrine emergency that requires rapid recognition and multidisciplinary care. We report the case of a 16-year-old female patient admitted to the emergency department with acute confusion, fever, and tachycardia, in whom severe thyrotoxicosis was confirmed. Her Burch-Wartofsky score was 40, consistent with an impending thyroid storm. Graves’ disease had been previously diagnosed, but treatment was delayed, and influenza B infection acted as a precipitating factor. Management with antithyroid drugs, beta-blockers, and intensive care led to clinical improvement, with thyroidectomy subsequently planned. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, coordinated management, and awareness of infection as a trigger, while emphasizing the limitations of antithyroid therapy in adolescents.