A 62-year-old female complains of fatigue and lack of energy.Constipation has increased and the patient has gained ten pounds in the past 3 months.Depression is denied although the patient reports a lack of interest in usual hobbies.Vital signs are within normal limits and the patient's skin is dry and cool.Which of the following must be included in the differential?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms such as fatigue, lack of energy, constipation, weight gain, and dry skin are all characteristic of hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism (A) would present with opposite symptoms such as weight loss, palpitations, and heat intolerance. Hyperparathyroidism (C) would not typically present with fatigue and lack of energy. Grave's disease (D) is a type of hyperthyroidism and would present with symptoms opposite to those seen in this patient.

A 62-Year-Old Female Complains of Fatigue and Lack of Energy