Pruritus as a Symptom in Hyperthyroidism

A 1968 report highlighted pruritus, or severe itching, as an uncommon but possible initial symptom of hyperthyroidism, illustrated by a case of a 43-year-old woman. She experienced severe pruritus and significant hair loss over six months, alongside symptoms like diminished heat tolerance, poor appetite, and weight loss. Her elevated serum protein bound iodine level led to a hyperthyroidism diagnosis. This case suggested that pruritus could be an early indicator of hyperthyroidism, even in the absence of visible skin disease.