Management of fetal hyperthyroidism caused by persistent autoimmune antibodies in a case of previously treated maternal Graves’ disease

Abstract

Maternal Graves’ autoantibodies are well known to cause fetal and neonatal thyroid disturbances. Despite radioiodine therapy, Graves’ autoantibodies are known to persist, which can cross the placenta and cause hyperthyroidism in the fetus. We present the case of a 26-year-old woman in her first pregnancy, clinically and biochemically euthyroid with history of treated Graves’ disease, where the fetus showed signs of hyperthyroidism on antenatal scans. This was confirmed by amniotic fluid testing as fetal blood sampling was not feasible and successfully treated with maternal carbimazole whilst continuing thyroxine for the mother (block-replacement). We discuss the challenges in the diagnosis of fetal hyperthyroidism and treatment whilst maternal thyroid status is maintained on thyroxine.