Hypothyroidism Complicated by Vitamin C and Thiamin Deficiency in Surgical Patients

Abstract

Multiple vitamin deficiencies together with endocrinopathy may be encountered in individuals presenting with critical illness. Following the surprise postmortem diagnosis of concomitant scurvy, Wernicke, and hypothyroidism in an elderly woman presenting with a mix of atypical symptoms, patients considered at risk were tested for TSH, vitamin C, and thiamin levels. Between September 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022, 801 vitamin C levels in 679 patients were measured in our rural hospital and 309 (39%) were found <0.4 mg/dL. In this population, 39% of 626 thiamin levels were found to be low. Twenty-two patients with vitamin C and/or thiamin deficiency and elevated TSH levels were identified. Two patients died from scurvy; one also had myxedema. The incidence of vitamin C and thiamin deficiency in our patient population was higher than expected. Further studies should determine if this is unique to our rural setting or part of a bigger trend associated with poor dietary choices.