Myxedema-related cardiac tamponade diagnosed by focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS): a case report.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Pericardial effusion can progress to cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening condition in which clinical findings are often nonspecific and a complete Beck's triad is frequently absent. Focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) provides rapid bedside recognition of tamponade physiology and can expedite definitive management. This case highlights its pragmatic value for promptly identifying tamponade in a rare endocrine etiology-severe hypothyroidism (myxedema)-particularly in resource-limited settings.

Case presentation

A 62-year-old man with a 6-month history of progressive lower-limb edema and exertional dyspnea deteriorated to dyspnea at rest and generalized anasarca. Examination showed myxedematous features, jugular venous distension, and muffled heart sounds. Bedsid

SUBMITTER: Nati-Castillo HA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12920499 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature