Pretibial myxedema is associated with which thyroid condition?

Pretibial myxedema is associated with which thyroid condition?

• A. Graves disease
• B. Acanthosis nigricans
• C. Erythema nodosum
• D. Psoriasis-like plaques

Answer: (A)

Pretibial myxedema is a skin manifestation tied to Graves disease, driven by autoimmune TSH receptor antibodies that stimulate dermal fibroblasts to produce excess glycosaminoglycans. The resulting mucin deposition thickens the skin on the shins, producing waxy, non-pitting edema and induration. This extrathyroidal finding often accompanies other Graves features like hyperthyroidism and eye involvement, and it signals active autoimmune thyroid disease. The other conditions listed don’t share this specific pathophysiology or typical association with Graves disease.

Pretibial myxedema is a skin manifestation tied to Graves disease, driven by autoimmune TSH receptor antibodies that stimulate dermal fibroblasts to produce excess glycosaminoglycans. The resulting mucin deposition thickens the skin on the shins, producing waxy, non-pitting edema and induration. This extrathyroidal finding often accompanies other Graves features like hyperthyroidism and eye involvement, and it signals active autoimmune thyroid disease. The other conditions listed don’t share this specific pathophysiology or typical association with Graves disease.