Thyroid Physiology — Hyperthyroidism

Current · V5 (2025) → L1.iv Historical · V4 (2023) → U1.v 1 exam appearance

2008B Q15

Exam question

Outline the physiological consequences of hyperthyroidism in an adult.

CICMWrecks answer

Master answer

Metabolic:
- Increased basal metabolic rate (metabolic rate increased in nearly all cells)
- Carbohydrate
  - ↑absorption
  - ↑gluconeogenesis
  - ↑insulin secretion
  - ↑cellular glucose uptake
- Lipid
  - ↑absorption
  - ↑resorption from adipose tissue
    - → ↑plasma free fatty acids
  - ↑removal of cholesterol by liver (excreted in bile)
    - → ↓plasma cholesterol
- Protein
  - ↑muscle catabolism
CVS:
- +ve inotropy
- +ve chronotropy
- Vasodilation (so BP stays roughly the same)
Resp:
- ↑VT and ↑RR
  - Due to higher metabolic rate
Neuro:
- Lowered seizure threshold
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
GIT:
- Increased motility
MSK:
- ↑contractility
- Late effects of protein catabolism -> muscle wasting and weakness

Mooney 2016

Answer by Mooney

Past papers

1 appearance

Exam	Exact exam wording	Candidate success
2008B Q15	Outline the physiological consequences of hyperthyroidism in an adult.	—