Myxedema coma-rationale: myxedema coma, severe hypothyroidism, is a life-threatening condition that may develop if thyroid replacement medication isnt taken. exophthalmos (protrusion of the eyeballs) is seen with hyperthyroidism. although thyroid storm is life-threatening, its caused by severe hyperthyroidism. tibial myxedema (peripheral mucinous edema involving the lower leg) is associated with hypothyroidism but isnt life-threatening.client needs category: physiological integrityclient needs subcategory: reduction of risk potentialcognitive level: knowledgereference: smeltzer, s.c., et al. brunner and suddarths textbook of medical surgical-nursing, 11th ed. philadelphia: lippincott williams & wilkins, 2008, p. 1458.
