THYROXINE ABUSE - AN UNUSUAL CASE OF THYROTOXICOSIS IN PREGNANCY

Eating disorders and the associated behavioural problems and drug abus e are uncommon in pregnancy. When they do occur they are often unrecog nized because of denial but when significant may pose a risk to both t he mother and her fetus. This case illustrates a number of problems th at may be encountered in women with eating disorders in pregnancy, inc luding prolonged and recurrent metabolic disturbances and diuretic abu se. In particular it illustrates the derangements of thyroid function seen in pregnant women with eating disorders and reminds us that when a cause for thyrotoxicosis remains obscure, thyroxine abuse should be considered and explored.