[Clinical features of respiratory failure secondary to hypothyroidism].

Objective: To explore the clinical features of respiratory failure secondary to hypothyroidism.

Method: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 4 patients with respiratory failure secondary to hypothyroidism.

Results: Respiratory failure secondary to hypothyroidism usually happened in the aged patients, presenting as myxedema, disturbance of consciousness, anemia, and hyponatrium. Respiratory symptoms were rare. Type II respiratory failure might occur as disease progressed. The clinical presentation of hypothyroidism was atypical and easily neglected. The hypoxia and hypercapnia ameliorated after thyroid hormone therapy.

Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is a rare reason of respiratory failure. The prognosis is good after hormone therapy and mechanical ventilation.