Final answer:
Pretibial myxedema is commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, particularly with Graves' disease. It presents as a thickening and swelling of the skin on the shins and is treated by managing thyroid hormone levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pretibial myxedema is most commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, particularly Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder that is the most frequent cause of hyperthyroidism. In patients with Graves' disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland and surrounding tissues, including the skin, leading to the characteristic swelling and thickening of the skin seen in pretibial myxedema. This condition typically manifests as a lumpy, thickened, and discolored patch of skin over the shins.
While pretibial myxedema is not as common as other symptoms of hyperthyroidism, like weight loss or heat intolerance, it is a key diagnostic indicator of Graves' disease and occurs in a significant number of patients with this condition. The management of pretibial myxedema involves controlling the levels of thyroid hormone and perhaps local therapy to the affected skin..