Aspectos nutricionales en la enfermedad de graves: Comunicación de un caso

Abstract

Introduction: An increased basal metabolism rate and hyperphagia associated with weight loss are among the main clinical manifestations of hyperthyroidism. However, few literature reports are available regarding the adequacy of calorie consumption based on the energy expenditure of the patient. Case Report: A 24-year-old male patient (weight 61.5 kg, height 1.78 m) with a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease and initial hormone values consistent with this disease (free T3=17,6 pg/ml; free T4>6,0 ng/dl; TSH<0,004 IU/ml). Indirect calorimetry was performed in order to estimate real energy expenditure and adequacy of the nutritional conducts adopted during hospitalization. The patient had a resting energy expenditure of 2574 kcal. Conclusion: The present study suggests that the measurement of energy expenditure by indirect calorimetry is an important tool for the evaluation of the energy requirements and diet adequacy of a patient with thyrotoxicosis due to Graves' disease.