Myxedema

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Myxedema is a dry, waxy swelling of the skin. It's caused by buildup of protein parts and water in the skin. It's usually associated with hypothyroidism, a condition in which the gland that makes body-regulating hormones (the thyroid gland) doesn't make enough.

In severe cases, a coma may result (myxedema coma).