New-Onset Graves’ Disease With Thyroid Storm After COVID-19 Infection

COVID-19 has been a known cause of triggering autoimmune conditions. Previous literature demonstrates an increase in the incidence of Graves’ disease during the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus is thought to affect genetics, leading to a cascade of events that cause hyperthyroidism. In our case, an 81-year-old male presented with symptoms of palpitations, tremors, dizziness, diarrhea, and fatigue. He was found to be in atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, and his workup was consistent with hyperthyroidism. Based on his Burch-Wartofsky score, the diagnosis of thyroid storm was made. There are a limited number of case reports with new-onset Graves’ disease after COVID-19 infection. Interestingly, our patient was also in a thyroid storm. He was treated with hydrocortisone cholestyramine, potassium, and propylthiouracil. After treatment, his symptoms resolved, and his thyroid studies improved. We chose to present this case because it demonstrates one of the many autoimmune effects that COVID-19 has been linked to.