Factitious Graves' Disease Due to Biotin Immunoassay Interference-A Case and Review of the Literature.

Biotin: A Vitamin with a Double Identity

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes. While it's generally considered a safe and essential nutrient, there's a twist: high doses of biotin can interfere with certain immunoassays, including those used to measure thyroid hormones. This study reports a case of factitious Graves' disease, where a patient's high-dose biotin supplementation led to an inaccurate diagnosis.

Misleading Results and the Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

The study reveals the potential for high-dose biotin supplementation to cause misleading results in thyroid immunoassays. This highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of potential interferences in lab tests. In this particular case, the patient's high biotin intake falsely suggested Graves' disease.

Biotin: A Double-Edged Sword

Biotin is a vital nutrient, but it can also become a double-edged sword. Like a mirage in the desert, high doses of biotin can create a false sense of reality in lab tests. This emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional about appropriate biotin intake and the potential for interactions with medications or lab tests.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

This study reminds us that even seemingly benign substances like biotin can have unintended consequences. It emphasizes the crucial role of healthcare professionals in accurately interpreting lab tests, especially when patients are taking supplements or medications.