Pretibial myxedema

Pretibial myxedema (PTM) is a dermatological condition often associated with Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder that is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is also known as thyroid dermopathy. The skin condition is characterized by swelling in the lower legs and feet.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The most common symptom of pretibial myxedema is the appearance of raised, thickened areas of skin on the shins and feet. These areas may be red, pink, or brown, and may have a waxy or shiny appearance. Other symptoms can include:

Skin that appears swollen or puffy
Skin that feels tight or stiff
Skin that is red or warm to the touch
Difficulty moving the affected area

Causes[edit | edit source]

Pretibial myxedema is caused by an autoimmune response in Graves' disease where antibodies attack the tissues under the skin, causing inflammation and the accumulation of a substance called glycosaminoglycans.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of pretibial myxedema is usually based on the characteristic appearance of the skin and a history of Graves' disease. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for pretibial myxedema can include:

Corticosteroid creams or ointments to reduce inflammation
Compression stockings to reduce swelling
In severe cases, oral corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs may be used

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for pretibial myxedema is generally good, although the condition can be persistent and may recur. Treatment can help to manage symptoms and improve the appearance of the skin.

See also[edit | edit source]

Pretibial myxedema Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.