AWARENESS OF TREATMENT PROTOCOLS WITH MYXEDEMA PATIENTS AMONG DENTAL COLLEGE STUDENTS - A SURVEY

Introduction: Myxedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism most commonly occurs in females which is a life threatening condition with a high rate of mortality. It should be treated and diagnosed at the early stage to avoid complications. Thyroxine therapy, steroid treatment and glucocorticoid treatment are the major therapy to cure myxedema. Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the awareness about the treatment protocols with myxedema patients among dental college students. Materials and methods: Self administered questionnaires were designed based on knowledge, attitude and practice. The questions were distributed through an online platform. The study population included people belonging to the age group of 18 to 24 years. The data were collected and statistically analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Results were collected as ordinal data and it is good to know that more than half of the population are aware of treatment protocols to treat myxedema patients. They are aware of symptoms, causes, complications and treatment for myxedema. Conclusion: It is important to know about the treatment protocols for better treatment planning and diagnosis. It is concluded that 72 % of the population were aware of treatment protocols to be followed for myxedema patients.