Myxoedema coma.

Myxoedema coma is a medical emergency, which must be treated immediately. Otherwise the mortality is high. It is important to administer L-triiodothyronine and corticosteroids early. If hypoventilation occurs, artificial respiration may be necessary. In the two cases of described here the outcome was successful, probably owing to quick substitution. The causes of myxoedema and the symptomatology are discussed.