Facial edema that is associated with long-term untreated hypothyroidism is called _________.

Facial edema that is associated with long-term untreated hypothyroidism is called _________.

• A. cretinism
• B. myxedema
• C. tetany
• D. thyroiditis

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that long‑standing untreated hypothyroidism causes a distinctive type of non-pitting facial edema called myxedema. This happens because low thyroid hormone leads to accumulation of mucopolysaccharides (glycosaminoglycans) in the dermis and other interstitial tissues, pulling water into the tissue and creating a swollen, puffy face. This edema is non-pitting because of the thickened, gel-like extracellular matrix. Understanding the context helps: hypothyroidism slows metabolism and alters connective tissue, so you see the characteristic facial puffiness along with other signs like dry skin and coarse features. Myxedema can occur in adults with prolonged thyroid hormone deficiency and, in severe cases, progress to myxedema coma if not treated. Why the other terms don’t fit here: cretinism refers to congenital hypothyroidism presenting in infancy with growth and mental development issues; tetany results from low calcium rather than tissue edema; thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland, not the specific edema pattern described.

The main idea is that long‑standing untreated hypothyroidism causes a distinctive type of non-pitting facial edema called myxedema. This happens because low thyroid hormone leads to accumulation of mucopolysaccharides (glycosaminoglycans) in the dermis and other interstitial tissues, pulling water into the tissue and creating a swollen, puffy face. This edema is non-pitting because of the thickened, gel-like extracellular matrix.

Understanding the context helps: hypothyroidism slows metabolism and alters connective tissue, so you see the characteristic facial puffiness along with other signs like dry skin and coarse features. Myxedema can occur in adults with prolonged thyroid hormone deficiency and, in severe cases, progress to myxedema coma if not treated.

Why the other terms don’t fit here: cretinism refers to congenital hypothyroidism presenting in infancy with growth and mental development issues; tetany results from low calcium rather than tissue edema; thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland, not the specific edema pattern described.