[Pretibial myxedema after Graves' disease: A differential diagnosis of lymphedema]

Rev Med Interne. 2023 Dec;44(12):641-645. doi: 10.1016/j.revmed.2023.09.003. Epub 2023 Oct 10.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Introduction: Pretibial myxedema is a rare manifestation of Graves' disease, and pseudotumoral forms may be confused with lower limb lymphedema.

Observations: We reported 3 cases of pretibial myxedema in 2 women and 1 man, aged 72, 66, and 49 years, treated for Graves' disease 3, 25 and 32 years previously. Two patients were active smokers. Lymphedema diagnosis of the lower limbs was suspected in the presence of bilateral pseudotumoral lesions of the feet, toes and ankles and the presence of a Stemmer's sign (skin thickening at the base of the 2nd toe, pathognomonic of lymphedema). Lymphoscintigraphy in one case was normal, not confirming lymphedema.

Conclusion: Pretibial pseudotumoral myxedema is a differential diagnosis of lower limb lymphedema. This diagnosis is confirmed by questioning the patient about preexisting Graves' disease, the underlying etiology, to decide the appropriate treatment and to encourage cessation of smoking, which is a risk factor for pretibial myxedema.

Keywords: Graves’ disease; Maladie de Basedow; Myxœdème prétibial; Pretibial myxedema.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Graves Disease* / complications
  • Graves Disease* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Leg Dermatoses* / diagnosis
  • Leg Dermatoses* / etiology
  • Leg Dermatoses* / pathology
  • Lower Extremity / pathology
  • Male
  • Myxedema* / diagnosis
  • Myxedema* / etiology
  • Myxedema* / pathology
  • Toes / pathology