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Kravchenko M, Forbes W, Graybill S. Association of Serum Thyroxine and Atrial Fibrillation in Patients on Levothyroxine. Mil Med 2024:usae324. [PMID: 38913449 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usae324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Excess thyroid hormone is a well-documented risk factor for the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). The purpose of the study is to assess incidence of AF in patients taking levothyroxine for hypothyroidism and correlate it with biochemical thyroid function. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of patients aged 18 years and older who were treated with levothyroxine. Exclusion criteria were pre-existing diagnosis of AF and use of amiodarone in the prior year. Patients were followed 2012 through 2019 and stratified into 4 groups based on mean thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) value or mean fT4 value in 2012. Primary outcome was incidence of AF. Rates of AF between groups were assessed via Poisson regression with control of underlying confounders. RESULTS Of 21,035 patients, 1091 (5.2%) developed AF during follow-up. Thyroid-stimulating hormone at baseline was not significantly associated with incident AF. Higher fT4 levels at baseline were associated with increased AF risk in age- and sex-adjusted analyses (hazard ratio 1.22; 95% CI, 1.03-1.44) for the highest quartile versus the lowest quartile of fT4. CONCLUSIONS In hypothyroid patients treated with levothyroxine, higher circulating fT4 levels are associated with increased risk of incident AF. There is no association of serum TSH with risk of AF. In patients at risk for AF, consideration should be given to avoiding fT4 levels in the highest quartile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kravchenko
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Brooke Army Medical Center and Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
- Maryland Metabolic Institute, Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21229, USA
| | - Whitney Forbes
- Defense Health Agency, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
| | - Sky Graybill
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Brooke Army Medical Center and Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, San Antonio, TX 78234, USA
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2
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Larisch R, Midgley JEM, Dietrich JW, Hoermann R. Effect of Radioiodine Treatment on Quality of Life in Patients with Subclinical Hyperthyroidism: A Prospective Controlled Study. Nuklearmedizin 2024; 63:176-187. [PMID: 38262472 DOI: 10.1055/a-2240-8087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Radioiodine treatment (RIT) has a high success rate in both the treatment of hyperthyroidism and improving the quality of life (QoL) of symptomatic patients. In asymptomatic patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism thyroid related QoL outcomes are less well known. METHODS Study aim was to evaluate thyroid-related QoL in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism mostly due to toxic nodular goitre undergoing RIT, compared to a control group of euthyroid subjects. Study design was monocentric, prospective, controlled. Fifty control subjects were enrolled and 51 RIT patients. Most subjects were examined at least twice at an interval of 6 months, with visits immediately before and 6 months after treatment in the RIT group. QoL was estimated with the ThyPRO questionnaire, using its composite scale as primary outcome. Treatment effect was the mean adjusted difference (MAD) between groups over time, using repeated? measures mixed? effects models. RESULTS TSH concentrations were lower in the RIT group prior to treatment and recovered thereafter slightly above the level of the control group. Correspondingly, QoL improved significantly after 6 months from a worse level in the RIT group, compared to controls (MAD -10.3 [95% CI -14.9, -5.7], p<0.001). QoL improvements were strong for general items, but less pronounced for the hyperthyroid domain. Compared to controls, thyroid volume, thyroid functional capacity (SPINA-GT) and deiodinase activity (SPINA-GD) were significantly reduced in the RIT group. CONCLUSION Patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism improve both biochemically and in their QoL after RIT, compared to controls. QoL assessment should have a wider role in clinical practice to complement biochemical tests and help with treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Larisch
- Clinic of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
| | - John E M Midgley
- North Lakes Clinical, Ilkley LS29 8PT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Johannes W Dietrich
- Medical Hospital I, Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Bochum, Germany
| | - Rudolf Hoermann
- Clinic of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
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3
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Casis O, Echeazarra L, Sáenz-Díez B, Gallego M. Deciphering the roles of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) on cardiac electrical remodeling in clinical and experimental hypothyroidism. J Physiol Biochem 2024; 80:1-9. [PMID: 38019451 PMCID: PMC10808292 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-023-01000-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism is the most frequent endocrine pathology. Although clinical or overt hypothyroidism has been traditionally associated to low T3 / T4 and high thyrotropin (TSH) circulating levels, other forms exist such as subclinical hypothyroidism, characterized by normal blood T3 / T4 and high TSH. In its different forms is estimated to affect approximately 10% of the population, especially women, in a 5:1 ratio with respect to men. Among its consequences are alterations in cardiac electrical activity, especially in the repolarization phase, which is accompanied by an increased susceptibility to cardiac arrhythmias. Although these alterations have traditionally been attributed to thyroid hormone deficiency, recent studies, both clinical trials and experimental models, demonstrate a fundamental role of TSH in cardiac electrical remodeling. Thus, both metabolic thyroid hormones and TSH regulate cardiac ion channel expression in many and varied ways. This means that the different combinations of hormones that predominate in different types of hypothyroidism (overt, subclinic, primary, central) can generate different forms of cardiac electrical remodeling. These new findings are raising the relevant question of whether serum TSH reference ranges should be redefined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Casis
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Leire Echeazarra
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Beatriz Sáenz-Díez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Mónica Gallego
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
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4
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Fitzgerald SP, Falhammar H, Hoermann R. Re: "Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and Thyroid Hormones (Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine): An American Thyroid Association-Commissioned Review of Current Clinical and Laboratory Status" by Van Uytfanghe et al. Thyroid 2024; 34:274-275. [PMID: 37885212 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P Fitzgerald
- Department of General Medicine, and The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rudolf Hoermann
- Department of General Medicine, Gastroenterology and Endocrinology, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
- Yandina, Australia
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5
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Holley M, Razvi S, Dew R, Maxwell I, Wilkes S. Assessing the cardiovascular effects of levothyroxine use in an ageing United Kingdom population (ACEL-UK) protocol: a cohort and target trial emulation study. Thyroid Res 2023; 16:43. [PMID: 37953303 PMCID: PMC10641939 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00186-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subclinical hypothyroidism is diagnosed when serum thyroid stimulating hormone levels are higher whilst free thyroxine levels remain within their respective reference ranges. These reference ranges are uniformly applied in all adults, despite serum thyroid stimulating hormone levels naturally increasing with age. Research has found that mildly elevated thyroid stimulating hormone levels may be associated with some benefits in ageing patients, including reduced mortality and better cardiorespiratory fitness. Levothyroxine is typically prescribed to patients with hypothyroidism, but no conclusive evidence exists on whether levothyroxine therapy is beneficial or detrimental in older subclinical hypothyroid patients. Despite this, prescriptions for levothyroxine are increasing year-on-year. This study aims to determine if receiving levothyroxine affects the cardiovascular and bone health outcomes of subclinical patients in primary care aged 50 years and over. METHODS This project includes a retrospective cohort analysis and a target trial emulation study using electronic patient records collected between 2006 and 2021 and recorded in The Health Improvement Network database. The primary outcome of this study is to compare the cardiovascular outcomes of subclinical hypothyroid patients aged over 50 years treated with levothyroxine compared to those untreated. Secondary outcomes are bone health and all-cause mortality outcomes. Descriptive and inferential statistics will both be employed to analyse the data. Secondary analysis will explore confounding factors, including age, sex, smoking status, body mass index, co-morbidities, and levothyroxine dosage. DISCUSSION There needs to be a greater understanding of the potential risks of the current treatment for older patients with subclinical hypothyroidism in a primary care setting. We will investigate the clinical importance of this issue and whether older subclinical hypothyroid patients have poorer outcomes when treated. Clarifying this concern may help address the healthcare resource implications of ageing patients being misclassified as having mild hypothyroidism, as these patients are more likely to repeat their blood tests. This could reduce prescription wastage and improve patient outcomes and quality of life in the ageing population. TRIAL REGISTRATION Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Holley
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, UK.
| | - Salman Razvi
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Rosie Dew
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, UK
| | - Ian Maxwell
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, UK
| | - Scott Wilkes
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, UK
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6
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Carlomagno F, Minnetti M, Angelini F, Pofi R, Sbardella E, Spaziani M, Aureli A, Anzuini A, Paparella R, Tarani L, Porcelli T, De Stefano MA, Pozza C, Gianfrilli D, Isidori AM. Altered Thyroid Feedback Loop in Klinefelter Syndrome: From Infancy Through the Transition to Adulthood. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e1329-e1340. [PMID: 37216911 PMCID: PMC10584011 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT It has been claimed that thyroid dysfunction contributes to the spectrum of Klinefelter syndrome (KS); however, studies are scarce. OBJECTIVE In a retrospective longitudinal study, we aimed at describing the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and thyroid ultrasonographic (US) appearance in patients with KS throughout the life span. METHODS A total of 254 patients with KS (25.9 ± 16.1 years) were classified according to their pubertal and gonadal status and compared with different groups of non-KS age-matched individuals with normal thyroid function, treated and untreated hypogonadism, or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. We assessed serum thyroid hormone levels, antithyroid antibodies, US thyroid parameters, and in vitro pituitary type 2 deiodinase (D2) expression and activity. RESULTS Thyroid autoimmunity was more prevalent among individuals with KS at all ages, although the antibody (Ab)-negative vs Ab-positive cohorts were not different. Signs of thyroid dysfunction (reduced volume, lower echogenicity, and increased inhomogeneity) were more prominent in KS than in euthyroid controls. Free thyroid hormones were lower in prepubertal, pubertal, and adult patients with KS, whereas thyrotropin values were lower only in adults. Peripheral sensitivity to thyroid hormones was unaltered in KS, suggesting a dysfunctional HPT axis. Testosterone (T) was the only factor associated with thyroid function and appearance. In vitro testing demonstrated an inhibitory effect of T on pituitary D2 expression and activity, supporting enhanced central sensing of circulating thyroid hormones in hypogonadism. CONCLUSION From infancy through adulthood, KS is characterized by increased morphofunctional abnormalities of the thyroid gland, combined with a central feedback dysregulation sustained by the effect of hypogonadism on D2 deiodinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Francesco Angelini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pofi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Emilia Sbardella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Matteo Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Alessia Aureli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Antonella Anzuini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Roberto Paparella
- Department of Pediatrics, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Tommaso Porcelli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | | | - Carlotta Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome 00161, Italy
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7
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Xu Y, Derakhshan A, Hysaj O, Wildisen L, Ittermann T, Pingitore A, Abolhassani N, Medici M, Kiemeney LALM, Riksen NP, Dullaart RPF, Trompet S, Dörr M, Brown SJ, Schmidt B, Führer-Sakel D, Vanderpump MPJ, Muendlein A, Drexel H, Fink HA, Ikram MK, Kavousi M, Rhee CM, Bensenor IM, Azizi F, Hankey GJ, Iacoviello M, Imaizumi M, Ceresini G, Ferrucci L, Sgarbi JA, Bauer DC, Wareham N, Boelaert K, Bakker SJL, Jukema JW, Vaes B, Iervasi G, Yeap BB, Westendorp RGJ, Korevaar TIM, Völzke H, Razvi S, Gussekloo J, Walsh JP, Cappola AR, Rodondi N, Peeters RP, Chaker L. The optimal healthy ranges of thyroid function defined by the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality: systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2023; 11:743-754. [PMID: 37696273 PMCID: PMC10866328 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(23)00227-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reference intervals of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) are statistically defined by the 2·5-97·5th percentiles, without accounting for potential risk of clinical outcomes. We aimed to define the optimal healthy ranges of TSH and FT4 based on the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. METHODS This systematic review and individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis identified eligible prospective cohorts through the Thyroid Studies Collaboration, supplemented with a systematic search via Embase, MEDLINE (Ovid), Web of science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar from Jan 1, 2011, to Feb 12, 2017 with an updated search to Oct 13, 2022 (cohorts found in the second search were not included in the IPD). We included cohorts that collected TSH or FT4, and cardiovascular outcomes or mortality for adults (aged ≥18 years). We excluded cohorts that included solely pregnant women, individuals with overt thyroid diseases, and individuals with cardiovascular disease. We contacted the study investigators of eligible cohorts to provide IPD on demographics, TSH, FT4, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, history of cardiovascular disease and risk factors, medication use, cardiovascular disease events, cardiovascular disease mortality, and all-cause mortality. The primary outcome was a composite outcome including cardiovascular disease events (coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure) and all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were the separate assessment of cardiovascular disease events, all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular disease mortality. We performed one-step (cohort-stratified Cox models) and two-step (random-effects models) meta-analyses adjusting for age, sex, smoking, systolic blood pressure, diabetes, and total cholesterol. The study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42017057576. FINDINGS We identified 3935 studies, of which 53 cohorts fulfilled the inclusion criteria and 26 cohorts agreed to participate. We included IPD on 134 346 participants with a median age of 59 years (range 18-106) at baseline. There was a J-shaped association of FT4 with the composite outcome and secondary outcomes, with the 20th (median 13·5 pmol/L [IQR 11·2-13·9]) to 40th percentiles (median 14·8 pmol/L [12·3-15·0]) conveying the lowest risk. Compared with the 20-40th percentiles, the age-adjusted and sex-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for FT4 in the 80-100th percentiles was 1·20 (95% CI 1·11-1·31) for the composite outcome, 1·34 (1·20-1·49) for all-cause mortality, 1·57 (1·31-1·89) for cardiovascular disease mortality, and 1·22 (1·11-1·33) for cardiovascular disease events. In individuals aged 70 years and older, the 10-year absolute risk of composite outcome increased over 5% for women with FT4 greater than the 85th percentile (median 17·6 pmol/L [IQR 15·0-18·3]), and men with FT4 greater than the 75th percentile (16·7 pmol/L [14·0-17·4]). Non-linear associations were identified for TSH, with the 60th (median 1·90 mIU/L [IQR 1·68-2·25]) to 80th percentiles (2·90 mIU/L [2·41-3·32]) associated with the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Compared with the 60-80th percentiles, the age-adjusted and sex-adjusted HR of TSH in the 0-20th percentiles was 1·07 (95% CI 1·02-1·12) for the composite outcome, 1·09 (1·05-1·14) for all-cause mortality, and 1·07 (0·99-1·16) for cardiovascular disease mortality. INTERPRETATION There was a J-shaped association of FT4 with cardiovascular disease and mortality. Low concentrations of TSH were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality. The 20-40th percentiles of FT4 and the 60-80th percentiles of TSH could represent the optimal healthy ranges of thyroid function based on the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality, with more than 5% increase of 10-year composite risk identified for FT4 greater than the 85th percentile in women and men older than 70 years. We propose a feasible approach to establish the optimal healthy ranges of thyroid function, allowing for better identification of individuals with a higher risk of thyroid-related outcomes. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanning Xu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Arash Derakhshan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ola Hysaj
- Institute of Primary Health Care, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lea Wildisen
- Institute of Primary Health Care, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Till Ittermann
- Institute for Community Medicine, Clinical-Epidemiological Research, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | | | - Marco Medici
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lambertus A L M Kiemeney
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department for Health Evidence, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Niels P Riksen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Robin P F Dullaart
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Stella Trompet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Marcus Dörr
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Suzanne J Brown
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Börge Schmidt
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Dagmar Führer-Sakel
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Axel Muendlein
- Vorarlberg Institute for Vascular Investigation and Treatment, Feldkirch, Austria
| | - Heinz Drexel
- Vorarlberg Institute for Vascular Investigation and Treatment, Feldkirch, Austria; Private University of the Principality of Liechtenstein, Triesen, Liechtenstein; Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Howard A Fink
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Healthcare System, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - M Kamran Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Connie M Rhee
- Harold Simmons Center for Chronic Disease Research and Epidemiology, University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Orange, CA, USA
| | - Isabela M Bensenor
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Graeme J Hankey
- The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Massimo Iacoviello
- Cardiology Unit, Cardiothoracic Department, University Polyclinic Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Misa Imaizumi
- Department of Clinical Studies, Radiation Effects Research Foundation, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Graziano Ceresini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Internal Medicine and Onco-Endocrinology, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Longitudinal Studies Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - José A Sgarbi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Faculdade de Medicina de Marília, Marília, Brazil
| | - Douglas C Bauer
- Departments of Medicine, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nick Wareham
- Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kristien Boelaert
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stephan J L Bakker
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - J Wouter Jukema
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands; Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Bert Vaes
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Giorgio Iervasi
- National Research Council Institute of Clinical Physiology, Pisa, Italy
| | - Bu B Yeap
- The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Rudi G J Westendorp
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tim I M Korevaar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Henry Völzke
- Institute for Community Medicine, Clinical-Epidemiological Research, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Salman Razvi
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jacobijn Gussekloo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands; Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - John P Walsh
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia; The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Anne R Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicolas Rodondi
- Institute of Primary Health Care, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robin P Peeters
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Layal Chaker
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
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8
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Pearce EN. Is it time to re-assess the development of thyroid function reference ranges? Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2023; 11:711-712. [PMID: 37696274 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(23)00257-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth N Pearce
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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9
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Wang R, Tang Z, Wu Z, Xiao Y, Li J, Zhu J, Zhang X, Ming J. Construction and validation of nomograms to reduce completion thyroidectomy by predicting lymph node metastasis in low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2023; 49:1395-1404. [PMID: 37061404 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2023.03.236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT More than 5 central lymph nodes metastases (CLNM) or lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) indicates a higher risk of recurrence in low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and may lead to completion thyroidectomy (CTx) in patients initially undergoing lobectomy. OBJECTIVE To screen potentially high-risk patients from low-risk patients by using preoperative and intraoperative clinicopathological features to predict lymph node status. METHODS A retrospective analysis of 8301 PTC patients in Wuhan Union Hospital database (2009-2021) was performed according to the 2015 American Thyroid Association (ATA) and 2021 National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, respectively. Logistic regression and best subsets regression were used to identify risk factors. Nomograms were established and externally validated using the Differentiated Thyroid Cancer in China cohort. RESULTS More than 5 CLNM or LLNM was detected in 1648 (19.9%) patients. Two predictive models containing age, gender, maximum tumor size, free thyroxine (FT4) and palpable node (all p < 0.05) were established. The nomogram based on NCCN criteria showed better discriminative power and consistency with a specificity of 0.706 and a sensitivity of 0.725, and external validation indicated that 76% of potentially high-risk patients could achieve preoperative conversion of surgical strategy. CONCLUSIONS Models based on large cohorts with good predictive performance were constructed and validated. Preoperative low-risk (T1-2N0M0) patients with age younger than 40 years, male gender, large tumor size, low FT4 and palpable nodes may be at high risk of LLNM or more than 5 CLNM, and they should receive more aggressive initial therapy to reduce CTx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Wang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zimei Tang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zhenghao Wu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yunxiao Xiao
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jiexiao Li
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Junling Zhu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ximeng Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Jie Ming
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Lieber I, Van Der Feltz-Cornelis CM, Razvi S, Moriarty AS, Wilkes S, Ott M, Mannchen J, Eliasson M, Werneke U. Treating subclinical hypothyroidism in individuals with or without mental health problems -A Delphi based expert consensus study in two countries. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1204842. [PMID: 37501790 PMCID: PMC10369346 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1204842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is a common endocrine problem with prevalence estimates between 4% and 20%. Symptoms are often non-specific but can substantially affect well-being leading to repeated medical consultations. The effect of thyroid hormone replacement therapy (THRT) in patients with SCH remains uncertain. Current guidelines, limited by the lack of high-quality evidence, have been controversial with limited adherence in clinical practice. Methods Three-round modified Delphi method to establish consensus regarding diagnosis and treatment of individuals with SCH with and without affective disorder or anxiety, conducted with clinicians from three specialties, general practice, endocrinology and psychiatry, and two countries, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Results Sixty clinicians, 20 per specialty, were recruited. Fifty-three (88%) participants completed all three rounds. The participants reached consensus on five of the 26 practice statements that (a) repeated testing was required for the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism, (b) antibody screening should usually occur, and (c and d) antibody screening would strengthen the indication for thyroid hormone replacement therapy in both individuals with or without affective disorder or anxiety. The participants disagreed with (e) a requirement of a TSH threshold ≥ 20 mIU/L for thyroid hormone replacement therapy start. Psychiatrists and GPs but not endocrinologists, agreed that there was a frequent discrepancy between laboratory results and clinical symptoms, and disagreed that testing for thyroid dysfunction was overused in patients presenting with depression or anxiety, or fatigue. Conclusions In many aspects, attitudes toward diagnosing and treating SCH remain diverse. The inability of our Delphi panel to achieve consensus on most items and the disagreement with a TSH ≥ 20 mIU/L threshold for treatment suggest that the concept of SCH may need rethinking with a better understanding of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid physiology. Given that the scientific evidence is currently not conclusive, guidelines in this area should not be taken as definitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Lieber
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Psychiatry, Sunderby Research Unit, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Christina Maria Van Der Feltz-Cornelis
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- R&D Department, Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, Darlington, United Kingdom
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Salman Razvi
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew S. Moriarty
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Scott Wilkes
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, School of Medicine, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Ott
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine – Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Julie Mannchen
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mats Eliasson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Sunderby Research Unit, Umeå University, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Ursula Werneke
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Psychiatry, Sunderby Research Unit, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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11
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Yang R, Zhu F, Yue Y, Lu X, Zhu P, Li Z, Zhao X, Yang X, Zhou Y, Du X. Association between thyroid function and psychotic symptoms in adolescents with major depressive disorder: A large sample sized cross-sectional study in China. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16770. [PMID: 37303557 PMCID: PMC10248252 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds Thyroid function was associated with depression and psychotic symptoms; however, little research has focused on its role in coexisting psychotic symptoms in adolescents with depressive disorder. This study aimed to explore the association between thyroid function and psychotic symptoms among depression adolescents. Methods A total of 679 adolescent patients (aged 12-18) diagnosed as depressive disorder were recruited. Their socio-demographic, clinical data and thyroid function parameters were collected. The severity of psychotic symptoms was measured according to the assessment measure in DSM-5. Based on the severity of psychotic symptoms, patients were distributed into psychotic depression (PD) and non-psychotic depression (NPD) subgroups, respectively. Results The prevalence rate of PD was 52.7% among adolescents with depressive disorder in this study. PD patients were younger (p < 0.01), with more female (p < 0.001) and non-Han nationality (p < 0.01), and presented serum FT4 level decrease (p < 0.01). PD patients displayed a higher rate of abnormal thyroid relevant parameters (p < 0.05). 35.2% of PD patients presented at least one abnormal parameter among all five parameters tested (TSH, TT3, FT3, TT4, and FT4), compared to 27.4% among NPD patients. Further logistic regression analysis indicated that increased serum FT4 level was a protective effect of PD with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 0.615. We did not find a statistically significant difference in the family history of mental disorders, serum TSH, TT3, FT3, and TT4 levels. Conclusions Our results suggested a high prevalence of PD among depression adolescents, associated with younger age, female, non-Han nationality, and decreased serum FT4 level. We recommend that adolescents with depressive disorder regularly screen their serum FT4 levels for better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchang Yang
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Feng Zhu
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yan Yue
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinchuan Lu
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ping Zhu
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xueli Zhao
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xuna Yang
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yongjie Zhou
- Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiangdong Du
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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12
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Yamada S, Horiguchi K, Akuzawa M, Sakamaki K, Yamada E, Ozawa A, Kobayashi I, Shimomura Y, Okamoto Y, Andou T, Andou Y, Yamada M. The Impact of Age- and Sex-Specific Reference Ranges for Serum Thyrotropin and Free Thyroxine on the Diagnosis of Subclinical Thyroid Dysfunction: A Multicenter Study from Japan. Thyroid 2023; 33:428-439. [PMID: 36772798 PMCID: PMC10620437 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: Reference ranges for serum thyrotropin (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), and free triiodothyronine (fT3) established without considering age- and sex-based differences are currently used to evaluate thyroid function. Therefore, we investigated age- and sex-based differences in serum TSH and thyroid hormone levels in euthyroid individuals. Methods: We performed cross-sectional analyses of retrospective data collected from two Japanese institutions. We estimated sex-specific 95% reference ranges for TSH and fT4 according to age strata. Results: We included data from 14,860 participants undergoing screening with a Siemens thyroid testing kit and 8,132 participants undergoing screening with an Abbott kit during annual health check-ups at Takasaki Hidaka Hospital. In addition, 515 participants visiting a specialized thyroid-focused hospital were evaluated using Tosoh kits. The median TSH level of women in their 30s was 1.5 mIU/L (2.5th percentile, 0.5; 97.5th percentile, 4.6) using the Siemens kit, while that of women in their 60s was 1.9 (0.7-7.8) mIU/L. The corresponding levels were lower in men; the age-associated increase was small. The median serum fT4 level of men in their 30s was 1.3 (1.0-1.7) ng/dL and that of men in their 60s was 1.2 (1.0-1.6) ng/dL. These levels gradually but significantly decreased with age. fT4 levels in women were lower than those in men and remained consistent with age. Serum fT3 levels were significantly higher in men than in women and gradually but significantly decreased with age. The Abbott and Tosoh kits showed similar results. When using the Siemens kit, ∼60% (216/358) of women diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism using manufacturer-recommended reference ranges had normal results when age- and sex-specific reference ranges were applied, demonstrating the high percentage of overdiagnosis, especially in those aged ≥60 years. Conversely, some middle-aged individuals with normal thyroid function were reassessed and classified as having subclinical hyperthyroidism by age- and sex-specific reference ranges. Conclusions: Age- and sex-specific reference ranges should be used to avoid over- and underdiagnosis of subclinical thyroid dysfunction and appropriate therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Yamada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Horiguchi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | | | | | - Eijiro Yamada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ozawa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Masanobu Yamada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
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Association between thyroid hormones and comorbid psychotic symptoms in patients with first-episode and drug-naïve major depressive disorder. Psychiatry Res 2023; 320:115052. [PMID: 36645990 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid dysfunction is common in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients; however, its relationship with psychotic depression (PD) remains unclear. We aimed to assess thyroid hormones in 1718 first episode drug naïve (FEND) MDD patients and to determine their association with PD. The positive subscale of the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS-P), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) were used to detect clinical symptoms. The serum levels of free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), anti-thyroglobulin (TgAb), and thyroid peroxidases antibody (TPOAb) were assessed. The logistic regression model was conducted to determine risk factors for PD, and the Area Under the Curve (AUC) was used to test the performance of this model. 171 (10%) patients were identified as having PD. Serum levels of TSH, TgAb, and TPOAb displayed small-to-moderate associations with PANSS-P. HAMA score, HAMD score, and TSH levels were independently associated with PD. The regression model had excellent power to distinguish PD patients from non-PD patients with an AUC value of 0.93. Our study suggests TSH levels and severity of depression and anxiety symptoms were independent risk factors for PD. Regular thyroid function tests may help early detect PD.
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14
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Okoye C, Arosio B, Carino S, Putrino L, Franchi R, Rogani S, Cesari M, Mari D, Vitale G, Malara A, Calsolaro V, Monzani F. The Free Triiodothyronine/Free Thyroxine Ratio Is Associated with Frailty in Older Adults: A Longitudinal Multisetting Study. Thyroid 2023; 33:169-176. [PMID: 36641642 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: Various models have been proposed to predict frailty, including those based on clinical criteria and phenotypes. However, a simple biomarker associated with frailty has been not yet identified. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between free triiodothyronine (fT3)/free thyroxine (fT4) ratio value and the degree of frailty among three different cohorts of older individuals: (1) acutely ill hospitalized patients, (2) nursing-home (NH) residents, and (3) home-dwelling centenarians. Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of de-identified patient-level data from two prospective observational studies on acutely hospitalized older patients (Geriatric Acute Unit [GAU]), and home-dwelling centenarians (CENT), and a retrospective-prospective observational study on older NH residents. Demographic characteristics, along with a 30-items Frailty Index (FI) and serum thyrotropin, fT3 and fT4 measurements were obtained. Results: Six hundred fifteen individuals (aged 86.4 ± 8.9 years; 55.1% females) were included in the study, including 298 (48.5%) GAU, 250 (40.6%) NH, and 67 (10.9%) CENT. A significant inverse relationship between fT3/fT4 ratio and FI values was observed (ρs = -0.17 [confidence interval; CI: -0.092 to 0.252], p < 0.001), and this was confirmed by logistic multivariate analysis (β = -0.44, odds ratio [OR]: 0.64 [CI: 0.47-0.87], p < 0.001) (after adjustment for age, sex, and cohorts). Moreover, a progressively decreased mortality risk was associated with rising fT3/fT4 ratio (OR 0.60 [CI: 0.44-0.80] β = -0.51, p < 0.001]. Conclusions: The fT3/fT4 ratio value was inversely correlated with frailty degree and mortality risk in a large cohort of older individuals, including centenarians, regardless of their sex and clinical condition. fT3/fT4 ratio value could represent an easily measured independent biochemical marker of frailty degree in older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuma Okoye
- Geriatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Interdepartmental Research Centre on Biology and Pathology of Aging, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Solna, Sweden
| | - Beatrice Arosio
- Geriatrics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Riccardo Franchi
- Geriatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Interdepartmental Research Centre on Biology and Pathology of Aging, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Rogani
- Geriatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Interdepartmental Research Centre on Biology and Pathology of Aging, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Cesari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Geriatric Unit, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Mari
- Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Laboratory of Geriatric and Oncologic Neuroendocrinology Research, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Valeria Calsolaro
- Geriatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Interdepartmental Research Centre on Biology and Pathology of Aging, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Monzani
- Geriatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Interdepartmental Research Centre on Biology and Pathology of Aging, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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15
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Fitzgerald SP, Bean NG, Falhammar H, Hoermann R. Physiological linkage of thyroid and pituitary sensitivities. Endocrine 2023; 79:143-151. [PMID: 36115005 PMCID: PMC9813051 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03184-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The sensitivities of the pituitary to thyroxine feedback, and the thyroid to thyrotropin stimulation determine the free thyroxine /thyrotropin feedback loop and can be described mathematically by two curves. It is not well understood how the two curves combine in a healthy population with normal thyroid function to express the individual balance points that are observed. This study was directed at this issue testing the possibilities of random combination and directed linkage between the two curves. METHODS We reverse-engineered two sets of population data, on the assumption of independent combinations of thyroid and pituitary sensitivities, to obtain estimates of the curve describing thyroid sensitivity. Sensitivity studies were performed. RESULTS No analysis resulted in a physiologically feasible estimate of the curve describing thyroid sensitivity. There was evidence of linkage of the two curves in terms of their combination throughout the normal range. Thyroid response curves reflecting a low free thyroxine response to thyrotropin tended to be combined in individuals with thyrotropin curves reflecting a high thyrotropin response to free thyroxine, and vice versa. CONCLUSIONS Thyroid and pituitary sensitivities are linked, being combined in individuals in a non-random directed pattern. Direct mutual interaction may contribute to this linkage. This linkage precludes the derivation of the curves describing these sensitivities from population data of the free thyroxine and thyrotropin relationship and complicates their derivation by physiological experimentation. This linkage and probable interaction may also bestow evolutionary advantage by minimising inter-individual variation in free thyroxine levels and by augmenting homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Paul Fitzgerald
- The Departments of General Medicine and Endocrinology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- The University of Adelaide, School of Medicine, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Nigel G Bean
- School of Mathematical Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rudolf Hoermann
- Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Paulmannshöherstr. 14, 58515, Lüdenscheid, Germany
- 113 Andersons Road, Yandina, QLD, 4561, Australia
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Hoermann R, Pekker MJ, Midgley JEM, Dietrich JW. The role of supporting and disruptive mechanisms of FT3 homeostasis in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188231158163. [PMID: 36936128 PMCID: PMC10017955 DOI: 10.1177/20420188231158163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid hormones are controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis through a complex network of regulatory loops, involving the hormones TRH, TSH, FT4, and FT3. The relationship between TSH and FT4 is widely used for diagnosing thyroid diseases. However, mechanisms of FT3 homeostasis are not well understood. OBJECTIVE We used mathematical modelling to further examine mechanisms that exist in the HPT axis regulation for protecting circulating FT3 levels. METHODS A mathematical model consisting of a system of four coupled first-order parameterized non-linear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) was developed, accounting for the interdependencies between the hormones in the HPT axis regulation. While TRH and TSH feed forward to the pituitary and thyroid, respectively, FT4 and FT3 feed backward to both the pituitary and hypothalamus. Stable equilibrium solutions of the ODE system express homeostasis for a particular variable, such as FT3, if this variable stays in a narrow range while certain other parameter(s) and system variable(s) may vary substantially. RESULTS The model predicts that (1) TSH-feedforward protects FT3 levels if the FT4 production rate declines and (2) combined negative feedback by FT4 and FT3 on both TSH and TRH production rates keeps FT3 levels insensitive to moderate changes in FT4 production rates and FT4 levels. The optimum FT4 and FT3 feedback and TRH and TSH-feedforward ranges that preserve FT3 homeostasis were found by numerical continuation analysis. Model predictions were in close agreement with clinical studies and individual patient examples of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. CONCLUSIONS These findings further extend the concept of HPT axis regulation beyond TSH and FT4 to integrate the more active sister hormone FT3 and mechanisms of FT3 homeostasis. Disruption of homeostatic mechanisms leads to disease. This provides a perspective for novel testable concepts in clinical studies to therapeutically target the disruptive mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark J. Pekker
- Mathematical Sciences Department, University of Alabama, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | | | - Johannes W. Dietrich
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Section, Department of Medicine I, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Hospitals, Bochum, Germany
- Diabetes Centre Bochum/Hattingen, Blankenstein Hospital, Hattingen, Germany
- Centre for Diabetes Technology (ZDT), Catholic Hospitals Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Centre for Rare Endocrine Diseases (ZSEK), Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Ruhr University of Bochum and Witten/Herdecke University, Bochum, Germany
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Tasnim S, Wilson SG, Walsh JP, Nyholt DR. Cross-Trait Genetic Analyses Indicate Pleiotropy and Complex Causal Relationships between Headache and Thyroid Function Traits. Genes (Basel) 2022; 14:16. [PMID: 36672757 PMCID: PMC9858525 DOI: 10.3390/genes14010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have reported a comorbid relationship between headache and thyroid traits; however, little is known about the shared genetics and causality that contributes to this association. We investigated the genetic overlap and associations between headache and thyroid function traits using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. We found a significant genetic correlation (rg) with headache and hypothyroidism (rg = 0.09, p = 2.00 × 10−4), free thyroxine (fT4) (rg = 0.08, p = 5.50 × 10−3), and hyperthyroidism (rg = −0.14, p = 1.80 × 10−3), a near significant genetic correlation with secondary hypothyroidism (rg = 0.20, p = 5.24 × 10−2), but not with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Pairwise-GWAS analysis revealed six, 14, four and five shared (pleiotropic) loci with headache and hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, secondary hypothyroidism, and fT4, respectively. Cross-trait GWAS meta-analysis identified novel genome-wide significant loci for headache: five with hypothyroidism, three with secondary hypothyroidism, 12 with TSH, and nine with fT4. Of the genes at these loci, six (FAF1, TMX2-CTNND1, AARSD1, PLCD3, ZNF652, and C20orf203; headache-TSH) and six (HMGB1P45, RPL30P1, ZNF462, TMX2-CTNND1, ITPK1, SECISBP2L; headache-fT4) were significant in our gene-based analysis (pFisher’s combined p-value < 2.09 × 10−6). Our causal analysis suggested a positive causal relationship between headache and secondary hypothyroidism (p = 3.64 × 10−4). The results also suggest a positive causal relationship between hypothyroidism and headache (p = 2.45 × 10−3) and a negative causal relationship between hyperthyroidism and headache (p = 1.16 × 10−13). These findings suggest a strong evidence base for a genetic correlation and complex causal relationships between headache and thyroid traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Tasnim
- Statistical and Genomic Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, and Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Scott G. Wilson
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King’s College London, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - John P. Walsh
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Dale R. Nyholt
- Statistical and Genomic Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, and Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
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Luo Y, Wu F, Huang Z, Gong Y, Zheng Y. Assessment of the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism and blood lipid profile: reliable or not? Lipids Health Dis 2022; 21:137. [PMID: 36514152 PMCID: PMC9746155 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-022-01749-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and blood lipid metabolism is controversial. This study is intended to evaluate the relationship between SCH and blood lipid profiles using well defined diagnostic criteria. METHODS Data from 11,512 physical examinees in our hospital who had finished two tests with an interval of at least 3 months were analyzed, including 685 cases of SCH as stipulated in this study. In addition to common physical examination indicators, other parameters such as thyroid function indices and blood lipids were measured twice with an interval of at least 3 months. Subjects were diagnosed with SCH only when their levels of TT3, TT4, FT3 and FT4 were normal and TSH levels were increased on both tests, which meant these subjects were in a state of SCH for at least 3 months. The results of blood lipids for the second time were analyzed. RESULTS Statistically significant differences were found in age, sex, BMI, hemoglobin, total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein (HDL-C), and BFP between the SCH and control groups (P < 0.001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, blood pressure, blood lipids, blood glucose or BMI between patients with mild SCH and those with severe SCH (P > 0.05). After balancing the age and sex ratio, no factors were confirmed to be statistically significant independent factors of SCH. None of the parameters showed statistically significant differences between patients with mild SCH and those with severe SCH (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION After defining rigorous criteria for the diagnosis of SCH, no definite association between SCH and TC, LDL-C or HDL-C was confirmed in this study. SCH may have no relationship to the most concerning blood lipid profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Luo
- grid.414252.40000 0004 1761 8894The Department of Health Medicine, Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, 28# Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Fei Wu
- Health Management Department of China Health Promotion Foundation, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Huang
- grid.459785.2Health Management Center of Nanning First People’s Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Yan Gong
- grid.414252.40000 0004 1761 8894The Department of Health Medicine, Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, 28# Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853 China
| | - Yansong Zheng
- grid.414252.40000 0004 1761 8894The Department of Health Medicine, Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, 28# Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853 China
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19
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Wang Z, Lin Y, Jiang Y, Fu R, Wang Y, Zhang Q. The associations between thyroid-related hormones and the risk of thyroid cancer: An overall and dose-response meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:992566. [PMID: 36568112 PMCID: PMC9768331 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.992566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Thyroid cancer (TC) is one of the most common malignant tumours of the endocrine system. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is known as being a risk factor for TC, but other thyroid-related hormones are inconsistently associated with TC. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the relationships between thyroid-related hormones and the risk of TC. Methods This study utilized searches of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane library up to the date of March 31st, 2022. Additionally, we performed a systematic review of related original studies combining overall and dose-response meta-analyses. Results A total of 30, 5 and 7 articles were included in the meta-analyses of TSH, Free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and TC risk with 58437, 6813 and 7118 participants respectively. An increased risk of TC was associated with high TSH exposure (OR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.19-1.37, P < 0.001) in the overall meta-analysis. For every 1 mU/L increase in TSH, the risk of TC increased by 16%. However, in those studies that used healthy subjects as controls, the association was not statistically significant(P=0.62). Additionally, high serum FT3 demonstrated a reduced risk of TC, with a combined OR of 0.86 in the fixed-effect model (95% CI: 0.81-0.90, P < 0.001). In addition, a statistically significant increase in TC risk was found when FT4 concentrations reached a certain threshold (approximately 2.2 ng/dL) in the dose-response meta-analysis. Conclusions Significant associations between thyroid-related hormones and the risk of TC were found in this study. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Yuxin Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yixian Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Rong Fu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yabing Wang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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20
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Andersen S, Karmisholt J, Bruun NH, Riis J, Noahsen P, Westergaard L, Andersen SL. Interpretation of TSH and T4 for diagnosing minor alterations in thyroid function: a comparative analysis of two separate longitudinal cohorts. Thyroid Res 2022; 15:19. [PMID: 36210438 PMCID: PMC9549610 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-022-00137-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Minor alterations in thyroid function are frequent, and interpretation of thyroid function tests in the individual patient can be challenging. Furthermore, the choice of thyroid function test is debatable. To inform the debate, we performed a comparative evaluation of the variation in thyrotropin (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) in two different cohorts to illustrate the precision of TSH and T4 in the diagnosis and monitoring of thyroid dysfunction. Methods A comparative analysis of two separate longitudinal studies previously surveyed with monthly blood sampling for one year among 35 subjects. Participants were included based on T4 within the reference range and TSH either within (euthyroid; n = 15) or above (subclinical hypothyroidism; n = 20) the laboratory reference range on two independent blood samplings before inclusion. Exclusion criteria were known thyroid disease or use of thyroid interfering medication. TSH and T4 in individual samples were measured in a single batch to prevent between-batch variation. The distributions TSH and T4 were compared among euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroid individuals, and bootstrap estimates were used to calculate area under the curve (AUC). Results Collection of twelve, monthly blood samples in the 35 participants provided 420 samples, and data completeness was 100%. The mean TSH was 1.27/7.19 mIU/L and the mean total T4 was 106/85 nmol/L in euthyroid/subclinical hypothyroid participants. The subclinical hypothyroidism state deviated from the euthyroid by 20% for total T4 and by 466% for TSH. The overlap between the euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroid groups was 92.6% (389/420) for total T4 and 9.0% (38/420) of test results for TSH. The estimated AUC was 0.999 (95%-CI: 0.995; 1.00) for TSH and 0.853 (0.736; 0.935) for total T4. There was no confidence interval overlap between participant groups for TSH while there was a considerable overlap for total T4 (p < 0.001). Conclusion The distributions of thyroid function tests illustrated how TSH outperforms T4 for detecting delicate differences in thyroid function in an individual. Thus, TSH was markedly better than T4 to discriminate between the subtle differences in thyroid function corroborating that TSH is the more sensitive and accurate index of thyroid function status in the individual patient.
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21
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Müller P, Leow MKS, Dietrich JW. Minor perturbations of thyroid homeostasis and major cardiovascular endpoints—Physiological mechanisms and clinical evidence. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:942971. [PMID: 36046184 PMCID: PMC9420854 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.942971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that thyroid dysfunction is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The pleiotropic action of thyroid hormones strongly impacts the cardiovascular system and affects both the generation of the normal heart rhythm and arrhythmia. A meta-analysis of published evidence suggests a positive association of FT4 concentration with major adverse cardiovascular end points (MACE), but this association only partially extends to TSH. The risk for cardiovascular death is increased in both subclinical hypothyroidism and subclinical thyrotoxicosis. Several published studies found associations of TSH and FT4 concentrations, respectively, with major cardiovascular endpoints. Both reduced and elevated TSH concentrations predict the cardiovascular risk, and this association extends to TSH gradients within the reference range. Likewise, increased FT4 concentrations, but high-normal FT4 within its reference range as well, herald a poor outcome. These observations translate to a monotonic and sensitive effect of FT4 and a U-shaped relationship between TSH and cardiovascular risk. Up to now, the pathophysiological mechanism of this complex pattern of association is poorly understood. Integrating the available evidence suggests a dual etiology of elevated FT4 concentration, comprising both ensuing primary hypothyroidism and a raised set point of thyroid function, e. g. in the context of psychiatric disease, chronic stress and type 2 allostatic load. Addressing the association between thyroid homeostasis and cardiovascular diseases from a systems perspective could pave the way to new directions of research and a more personalized approach to the treatment of patients with cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Müller
- Department for Electrophysiology, Medical Hospital I, Klinikum Vest, Recklinghausen, NRW, Germany
| | - Melvin Khee-Shing Leow
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Metabolic Disorders Research Programme, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Johannes W. Dietrich
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Section, Department of Internal Medicine I, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, NRW, Germany
- Diabetes Centre Bochum/Hattingen, St. Elisabeth-Hospital Blankenstein, Hattingen, NRW, Germany
- Centre for Rare Endocrine Diseases, Ruhr Centre for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Ruhr University Bochum and Witten/Herdecke University, Bochum, NRW, Germany
- Centre for Diabetes Technology, Catholic Hospitals Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, NRW, Germany
- *Correspondence: Johannes W. Dietrich
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22
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Analysis of the Application Value of Ultrasound Three-Dimensional Speckle Tracking Technology Combined with Thyroid Autoantibodies and Hormones in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Graves' Disease. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:7774283. [PMID: 35845595 PMCID: PMC9279017 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7774283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of the study is to evaluate the application value of three-dimensional speckle tracking imaging (3D-STI) and combined detection of thyroid autoantibodies and hormones in the diagnosis and treatment of Graves' disease. Methods A total of 60 patients with Graves' disease enrolled in our hospital from February 2020 to February 2021 were included in the experimental group, and 60 healthy patients after a physical examination during the same period were selected as the control group. No intervention was performed on the control group, and the experimental group received conventional Graves' disease treatment. The levels of thyroid autoantibodies and hormones in the two groups before and after the treatment were measured, and the 3D-STI was performed to compare the 3D-STI strain parameters of the research objects. Results A significantly higher level of thyroid autoantibodies in the experimental group than that in the control group before and after the treatment was found (P < 0.001), with a remarkable decline observed after the treatment (P < 0.001). The positive rate of thyroid autoantibodies in the experimental group before the treatment was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). After the treatment, the positive rate of TRAb and TPOAb was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05), and the positive rate of TPOAb was higher than before the treatment. The two groups showed no significant difference in the positive rate of TGAb (P > 0.05). Significant differences were observed in the thyroid hormone levels between the two groups and also between before and after the treatment (P < 0.001). The experimental group garnered significantly higher 3D-STI strain parameters than the control group before the treatment (P < 0.05); after the treatment, the hyperthyroidism of the patients was relieved with a decreased 3D-STI value, but it was still notably higher than the control group (P < 0.05). Remarkably higher positive rates of combined detection before and after the treatment in the experimental group than those in the control group were obtained (P < 0.05). Conclusion The combined detection of 3D-STI and thyroid autoantibodies and hormones ensures a better detection rate of Graves' disease and monitors the treatment effect of patients in real time, which provides a basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment and merits clinical promotion and application.
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Liu Y, Huang Y, Mo G, Zhou T, Hou Q, Shi C, Yu J, Lv Y. Combined prognostic value of preoperative serum thyrotrophin and thyroid hormone concentration in papillary thyroid cancer. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24503. [PMID: 35666615 PMCID: PMC9279971 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A growing number of studies have found a close association between thyroid hormones and thyrotrophin (TSH), and they also have prognostic significance in some cancer types; this study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), fT3/fT4, TSH, and their combination in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Methods This study retrospectively analyzed the relevant data of 726 newly diagnosed PTC patients. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were used to predict the recurrence rate, and a risk score was established. In addition, with the use of a random survival forest, a random forest (RF) score was constructed. After calculating the area under the curve (AUC), the diagnostic efficacy of risk score, RF score, and four indicators was compared. Results fT3, fT4, fT3/fT4, and TSH were strongly associated with some invasive clinicopathological features and postoperative recurrence. Patients with high expression of fT4 and TSH have a high risk of recurrence. By contrast, patients with high expression of fT3 and fT3/fT4 have a low risk of recurrence. At the same time, the combined use of various indicators is more helpful for establishing an accurate diagnosis. By comparison, we found that the RF score was better than the risk score in terms of predicting the recurrence of PTC. Conclusion The diagnostic accuracy of a combination of fT3, fT4, fT3/fT4, and TSH can help improve our clinical estimate of the risk of recurrent PTC, thus allowing the development of a more effective treatment plan for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushu Liu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The second clinical medicine college, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yanyi Huang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The second clinical medicine college, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Guoheng Mo
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The Queen of Mary college, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qian Hou
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chaoqun Shi
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jichun Yu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yunxia Lv
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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24
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Fitzgerald SP, Falhammar H. Redefinition of Successful Treatment of Patients With Hypothyroidism. Is TSH the Best Biomarker of Euthyroidism? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:920854. [PMID: 35784560 PMCID: PMC9243528 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.920854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years evidence has accumulated supporting a revised view of the nature of euthyroidism and the biomarkers of thyroid function. Within the normal range, variations in thyroid hormone levels are associated with variations in clinical parameters and outcomes. There are therefore no readily identified individually specific optimum levels of thyroid hormones for any individual. Levels around the middle of the normal population range may best reflect euthyroidism. These levels may have evolutionary advantages on the basis that adverse outcomes often increase with divergence from such levels, and physiological processes tend to minimise such inter-individual and intra-individual divergence. In populations of predominantly untreated individuals, levels of thyroid hormones and in particular levels of free thyroxine (FT4) correlate more often with clinical parameters than do levels of thyrotropin (TSH). Levels of thyroid hormones may therefore be regarded as the best available biomarkers of euthyroidism and dysthyroidism. It follows that 'subclinical hypothyroidism' (normal FT4/raised TSH levels), rather than being an accurate marker of peripheral tissue hypothyroidism is more a marker of decreased thyroid reserve and prognosis. The recent evidence suggests that treatment of hypothyroxinemia, regardless of the TSH level, and monitoring therapy using FT4 and/or triiodothyronine levels, depending on the replacement regime, may result in more successful treatment of hypothyroidism than relying on thyrotropin levels for patient selection and subsequent treatment monitoring. The equivalents of mid-range levels of thyroid hormones (especially FT4), adjusted by individual comorbidity concerns, may be rational general replacement targets. These implications of the new evidence may create opportunities for novel trials of thyroid replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P. Fitzgerald
- The Departments of General Medicine and Endocrinology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Menzies School of Health Research and Royal Darwin Hospital, Tiwi, NT, Australia
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25
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Hoermann R, Pekker MJ, Midgley JEM, Larisch R, Dietrich JW. Principles of Endocrine Regulation: Reconciling Tensions Between Robustness in Performance and Adaptation to Change. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:825107. [PMID: 35757421 PMCID: PMC9219553 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.825107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine regulation in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis is orchestrated by physiological circuits which integrate multiple internal and external influences. Essentially, it provides either of the two responses to overt biological challenges: to defend the homeostatic range of a target hormone or adapt it to changing environmental conditions. Under certain conditions, such flexibility may exceed the capability of a simple feedback control loop, rather requiring more intricate networks of communication between the system's components. A new minimal mathematical model, in the form of a parametrized nonlinear dynamical system, is here formulated as a proof-of-concept to elucidate the principles of the HPT axis regulation. In particular, it allows uncovering mechanisms for the homeostasis of the key biologically active hormone free triiodothyronine (FT3). One mechanism supports the preservation of FT3 homeostasis, whilst the other is responsible for the adaptation of the homeostatic state to a new level. Together these allow optimum resilience in stressful situations. Preservation of FT3 homeostasis, despite changes in FT4 and TSH levels, is found to be an achievable system goal by joining elements of top-down and bottom-up regulation in a cascade of targeted feedforward and feedback loops. Simultaneously, the model accounts for the combination of properties regarded as essential to endocrine regulation, namely sensitivity, the anticipation of an adverse event, robustness, and adaptation. The model therefore offers fundamental theoretical insights into the effective system control of the HPT axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudolf Hoermann
- Department for Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
| | - Mark J. Pekker
- Mathematical Sciences Department, University of Alabama, Huntsville, AL, United States
| | | | - Rolf Larisch
- Department for Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
| | - Johannes W. Dietrich
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Section, Department of Medicine I, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Diabetes Centre Bochum/Hattingen, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Ruhr University of Bochum and Witten/Herdecke University, Bochum, Germany
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Birck MG, Almeida-Pititto BD, Janovsky CCPS, Goulart AC, Santos IS, Teixeira PDFDS, Sgarbi JA, Barreto SM, Duncan BB, Schmidt MI, Lotufo PA, Bensenor IM. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone and Thyroid Hormones and Incidence of Diabetes: Prospective Results of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-BRASIL). Thyroid 2022; 32:694-704. [PMID: 35473396 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: There are conflicting data regarding the association of thyroid function with incident diabetes. We prospectively investigated thyrotropin (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), free triiodothyronine (fT3), and its conversion ratio (fT3:fT4) with the risk of developing diabetes in euthyroid subjects and those with subclinical thyroid dysfunction. Our hypothesis is that this relationship is a U-shaped curve since both subclinical thyroid diseases may be associated with diabetes. Methods: ELSA-Brasil is a highly admixed cohort study of 35-74 years old at baseline (2008-2010). Levels of TSH, fT4, fT3, and fT3:fT4 ratio were evaluated at baseline and incident diabetes was estimated over an 8.2-year follow-up (2017-2019). Diabetes was identified based on medical diagnosis, prescriptions, and laboratory tests. The risk of diabetes was evaluated according to quintiles of TSH, fT4, fT3, and fT3:fT4 ratio using Poisson regression with robust variance presented as relative risk (RR) with confidence interval [CI] of 95% after multivariable adjustment for sociodemographic and cardiovascular risk factors (reference third quintile), and as continuous variables. Results: We included 7948 participants (mean age, 50.2 [standard deviation 8.6] years; 54.4% female): 7177 euthyroid, 726 with subclinical hypothyroidism, and 45 with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Incidence of diabetes was 14.8%. No association was found for TSH, fT4, fT3, and fT3:fT4 ratio quintiles with incident diabetes. Using continuous variables, the increase of 1-unit (1-U) of fT4 decreased the risk of diabetes (RR 0.94 [CI 0.91-0.99]), while the increase of 1-U of the fT3:fT4 ratio increased the diabetes risk (RR 1.37 [CI 1.15-1.63]). The increase of 1-U of fT3 was associated with an increased risk of diabetes, but without significance after multivariable adjustment. In body mass index-stratified analysis, people with overweight or obesity presented a modest significantly higher risk of diabetes in the lowest quintile of fT4 (RR 1.04 [CI 1.01-1.07]) and an inverse association with incident diabetes in the first quintile of fT3:fT4 ratio (RR, 0.95 [CI 0.93-0.98]). The analyses using continuous variables presented similar findings. Conclusion: These findings suggest that fT4 and fT3 levels and the conversion rate might be additional risk factors associated with incident diabetes, especially in the presence of overweight or obesity. However, they need to be confirmed in future studies. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02320461).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bianca de Almeida-Pititto
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carolina C P S Janovsky
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Carvalho Goulart
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Itamar S Santos
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jose A Sgarbi
- Thyroid Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina de Marilia, Marilia, Brazil
| | - Sandhi M Barreto
- Medical School and Clinical Hospital, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Bruce B Duncan
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology and Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês Schmidt
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology and Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Paulo A Lotufo
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela M Bensenor
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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27
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Bekiaridou A, Kartas A, Moysidis DV, Papazoglou AS, Baroutidou A, Papanastasiou A, Giannakoulas G. The bidirectional relationship of thyroid disease and atrial fibrillation: Established knowledge and future considerations. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:621-630. [PMID: 35112273 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09713-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) tends to occur frequently in patients with thyroid disease, primarily hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, increased levels of thyroid hormones, via intra- and extranuclear mechanisms, have profound effects on cardiac electrophysiology. Hypothyroidism carries a lower risk for AF and is mainly associated with the overtreatment of hypothyroid patients. New-onset AF is frequently the only manifestation of thyroid disease, which renders screening for thyroid dysfunction in that scenario clinically useful. Managing thyroid disease and comorbid AF is essential. This includes thyroid hormones control along with conventional AF therapy. However, there are several open issues with this comorbid duo. The optimal management of thyroid disease and its impact on AF burden remains obscure. There is scanty information on clear-cut benefits for therapy of subclinical thyroid disease and screening of asymptomatic patients. Furthermore, the immunogenetic overlap between the autoantibodies in Graves' disease and AF genesis may lead to novel therapeutic implications. The objective of this review is to summarize the up-to-date epidemiology, pathogenesis, pathophysiology and management of interacting thyroid disease and AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bekiaridou
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasios Kartas
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios V Moysidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andreas S Papazoglou
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Amalia Baroutidou
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasios Papanastasiou
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George Giannakoulas
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Hegedüs L, Bianco AC, Jonklaas J, Pearce SH, Weetman AP, Perros P. Primary hypothyroidism and quality of life. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:230-242. [PMID: 35042968 PMCID: PMC8930682 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00625-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In the 1970s, treatment with thyroid extract was superseded by levothyroxine, a synthetic L form of tetraiodothyronine. Since then, no major innovation has emerged for the treatment of hypothyroidism. The biochemical definition of subclinical hypothyroidism is a matter of debate. Indiscriminate screening for hypothyroidism has led to overdiagnosis and treatment initiation at lower serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) than previously. Adverse health effects have been documented in individuals with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and these adverse effects can affect health-related quality of life (QOL). Levothyroxine substitution improves, but does not always normalize, QOL, especially for individuals with mild hypothyroidism. However, neither studies combining levothyroxine and liothyronine (the synthetic form of tri-iodothyronine) nor the use of desiccated thyroid extract have shown robust improvements in patient satisfaction. Future studies should focus not only on a better understanding of an individual's TSH set point (the innate narrow physiological range of serum concentration of TSH in an individual, before the onset of hypothyroidism) and alternative thyroid hormone combinations and formulations, but also on autoimmunity and comorbidities unrelated to hypothyroidism as drivers of patient dissatisfaction. Attention to the long-term health consequences of hypothyroidism, beyond QOL, and the risks of overtreatment is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Paediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Simon H Pearce
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Anthony P Weetman
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Association of Subclinical Hypothyroidism with Present and Absent Anti-Thyroid Antibodies with PCOS Phenotypes and Metabolic Profile. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061547. [PMID: 35329880 PMCID: PMC8948753 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) often coexist, but implications of the co-occurrence of two disorders have not yet been established. The objective is to conclude whether SCH with present or absent anti-thyroid antibodies (ATA) impacts on the PCOS phenotype and alters biochemical or clinical parameters. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary reference center. Clinical and biochemical parameters of women with PCOS were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 367 women with PCOS were included in the study, 114 (31.1%) of whom were diagnosed with SCH and 16 (4.4%) with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Among all parameters studied, the strongest relationship with SCH was confirmed for insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. SCH was an independent risk factor for insulin resistance. In SCH the additional presence of ATA did not exacerbate the metabolic disorders. There was no significant association of any PCOS phenotype with SCH, nor with the presence of circulating ATA. There was no significant difference in hormonal parameters and mFerriman-Gallwey scale score between women with PCOS with and without SCH. CONCLUSIONS SCH alters metabolic, but not hormonal, parameters in PCOS. The diagnosis of SCH does not exclude the diagnosis of PCOS. The potential effect of positive ATA was insignificant.
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Abstract
Hypothyroidism is a common endocrinopathy, and levothyroxine is frequently prescribed. Despite the basic tenets of initiating and adjusting levothyroxine being agreed on, there are many nuances and complexities to consistently maintaining euthyroidism. Understanding the impact of patient weight and residual thyroid function on initial levothyroxine dosage and consideration of age, comorbidities, thyrotropin goal, life stage, and quality of life as levothyroxine is adjusted can be challenging and continually evolving. Because levothyroxine is a lifelong medication, it is important to avoid risks from periods of overtreatment or undertreatment. For the subset of patients not restored to baseline health with levothyroxine, causes arising from all aspects of the patient's life (coexistent medical conditions, stressors, lifestyle, psychosocial factors) should be broadly considered. If such factors do not appear to be contributing, and biochemical euthyroidism has been successfully maintained, there may be benefit to a trial of combination therapy with levothyroxine and liothyronine. This is not supported by the majority of randomized clinical trials, but may be supported by other studies providing lower-quality evidence and by animal studies. Given this discrepancy, it is important that any trial of combination therapy be continued only as long as a patient benefit is being enjoyed. Monitoring for adverse effects, particularly in older or frail individuals, is necessary and combination therapy should not be used during pregnancy. A sustained-release liothyronine preparation has completed phase 1 testing and may soon be available for better designed and powered studies assessing whether combination therapy provides superior therapy for hypothyroidism.
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Spira D, Buchmann N, Dörr M, Markus MRP, Nauck M, Schipf S, Spranger J, Demuth I, Steinhagen-Thiessen E, Völzke H, Ittermann T. Association of thyroid function with insulin resistance: data from two population-based studies. Eur Thyroid J 2022; 11:e210063. [PMID: 35085102 PMCID: PMC8963174 DOI: 10.1530/etj-21-0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Thyroid dysfunction is associated with relevant disturbances in glucose metabolism. Moreover, thyroid function undergoes important changes with ageing. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of thyroid function with insulin resistance with particular consideration of possible age-related effect modifications. DESIGN A sample of 4193 participants from two independent epidemiological studies, the Study of Health in Pomerania-TREND-0 and the Berlin Aging Study II, was included in this cross-sectional analysis. METHODS Insulin resistance was estimated by homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the insulin sensitivity index (ISI). Associations of thyroid biomarkers (thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, and free triiodothyronine (fT3)) with parameters of glucose metabolism were analysed by regression models adjusted for age, sex, smoking status, and study site. RESULTS A higher fT3 was significantly associated with higher fasting glucose and higher fasting and 2-h postload insulin levels, a higher HOMA-IR, and lower ISI. A higher fT3 was also associated with a higher risk for impaired fasting glucose (RR 1.09, 95 CI 1.02; 1.18; P = 0.017). Many of these associations between thyroid markers and parameters of glucose metabolism were significant in young and middle-aged participants but not in older individuals. CONCLUSIONS The main finding of this study was a consistent association of fT3 with almost all markers of insulin resistance. However, this effect seems to be wearing off in higher age highlighting a potential age-related modification of the interaction between thyroid function and glucose metabolism. Further studies are needed to clarify causal relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Spira
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence should be addressed to D Spira:
| | - Nikolaus Buchmann
- Department of Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marcus Dörr
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Marcello R P Markus
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Matthias Nauck
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sabine Schipf
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Joachim Spranger
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ilja Demuth
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BCRT – Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Steinhagen-Thiessen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Henry Völzke
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Till Ittermann
- Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Külz M, Fellner S, Rocktäschel J, Ceglarek U, Willenberg A, Kratzsch J. Dubiously increased FT4 and FT3 levels in clinically euthyroid patients: clinical finding or analytical pitfall? Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:877-885. [PMID: 35213944 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-1211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We systematically investigated normally or subclinically increased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values associated with unexpectedly increased thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) in findings of patients without any thyroid disease. Moreover, we looked for alternatives to overcome such states with an improved diagnostic procedure and to investigate the pathogenetic background of the respective patients. METHODS Samples with TSH concentrations within the range of 0.4-10 mU/L combined with increased concentrations of FT4 (n=120; Cobas, Roche) were collected over a period of around six years. Cobas FT4 results were compared with measurements from Liaison (DiaSorin) and Architect (Abbott) FT4 assays. For further validation all samples were measured for total thyroxine (TT4) (Cobas, Roche). Finally, FT3 and TT3 as complementary parameters were measured in samples with leftover material. To overcome potential analytical disturbances from stimulating heterophilic antibodies, we used heterophilic blocking tubes (HBTs). RESULTS From the 120 samples with increased FT4 concentrations by Cobas, 51/120 were also increased by Liaison, and 26/120 by Architect. However, the measurement of TT4 indicated only n=10/120 increased values. The number of increased FT3 (n=71) measurements was higher in Architect>Cobas>Liaison (28>27>9). TT3 levels of 70/71 samples were within the reference interval. HBTs were inappropriate to reduce unspecific immunoreactivity in our samples. No clear pathogenetic background could be elucidated in the anamnesis of individual patients. CONCLUSIONS To overcome dubious constellations of TSH, FT4, and FT3, it is helpful to measure TT4 and TT3 for control or to use an immunoassay with an alternative assay design for the respective parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Külz
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stephan Fellner
- pes Gesellschaft für medizinische Diagnosesysteme mbH, Markkleeberg, Germany
| | - Jörg Rocktäschel
- pes Gesellschaft für medizinische Diagnosesysteme mbH, Markkleeberg, Germany
| | - Uta Ceglarek
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Willenberg
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jürgen Kratzsch
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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Lui DTW, Lee CH, Chow WS, Lee ACH, Tam AR, Pang P, Ho TY, Cheung CYY, Fong CHY, Law CY, To KKW, Lam CW, Tan KCB, Woo YC, Hung IFN, Lam KSL. The Independent Association of TSH and Free Triiodothyronine Levels With Lymphocyte Counts Among COVID-19 Patients. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 12:774346. [PMID: 35095756 PMCID: PMC8792436 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.774346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Both lymphopenia and thyroid dysfunction are commonly observed among COVID-19 patients. Whether thyroid function independently correlates with lymphocyte counts (LYM) remains to be elucidated. Methods We included consecutive adults without known thyroid disorder admitted to Queen Mary Hospital for COVID-19 from July 2020 to April 2021 who had thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), free triiodothyronine (fT3) and LYM measured on admission. Results A total of 541 patients were included. Median LYM was 1.22 x 109/L, with 36.0% of the cohort lymphopenic. 83 patients (15.4%) had abnormal thyroid function tests (TFTs), mostly non-thyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS). Patients with lymphopenia had lower TSH, fT4 and fT3 levels than those without. Multivariable stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that both TSH (standardized beta 0.160, p<0.001) and fT3 (standardized beta 0.094, p=0.023), but not fT4, remained independently correlated with LYM, in addition to age, SARS-CoV-2 viral load, C-reactive protein levels, coagulation profile, sodium levels and more severe clinical presentations. Among the 40 patients who had reassessment of TFTs and LYM after discharge, at a median of 9 days from admission, there were significant increases in TSH (p=0.031), fT3 (p<0.001) and LYM (p<0.001). Furthermore, patients who had both lymphopenia and NTIS were more likely to deteriorate compared to those who only had either one alone, and those without lymphopenia or NTIS (p for trend <0.001). Conclusion TSH and fT3 levels showed independent positive correlations with LYM among COVID-19 patients, supporting the interaction between the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and immune system in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Tak Wai Lui
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chi Ho Lee
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Sun Chow
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alan Chun Hong Lee
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Anthony Raymond Tam
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Polly Pang
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tip Yin Ho
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chloe Yu Yan Cheung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carol Ho Yi Fong
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chun Yiu Law
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kelvin Kai Wang To
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ching Wan Lam
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kathryn Choon Beng Tan
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yu Cho Woo
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ivan Fan Ngai Hung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Karen Siu Ling Lam
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Fitzgerald SP, Bean NG, Fitzgerald SP, Falhammar H. The application of new concepts of the assessment of the thyroid state to pregnant women. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:987397. [PMID: 36051398 PMCID: PMC9424676 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.987397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently proposed concepts regarding the nature and assessment of the thyroid state have provided a model more consistent with empiric evidence. It now appears likely that there are no such entities as thyroid set points and individual euthyroidism. Rather than there being discrete thyroid states, peripheral organ parameters are associated with thyroid function in a continuous manner. Thyroid hormone levels and, in particular, levels of free thyroxine now appear to be superior to thyrotropin levels as indicators of the thyroid state. Complicating the assessment of the correlations of the thyroid state with pregnancy outcomes are the contribution of the placenta to maternal thyroid function, fetal thyroid development, the multiple potential pathways to any particular outcome, the likely presence of small critical periods of time, the differing genetics of fetal and maternal tissues, and the unreliability of thyroid hormone assays. Nevertheless, there is no apparent reason for there to be a change in pregnancy to the basic principles of thyroid hormone action. The relationships between mild abnormalities of the thyroid state and pregnancy outcomes and the value of treating such mild abnormalities remain uncertain and controversial. The evidence suggests that further investigation of these clinical questions might better be based on thyroid hormone, particularly free thyroxine, levels. In the investigation of borderline low thyroid states, the categories of subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia might both be abandoned with attention being directed to low free thyroxine levels regardless of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. For these changes to occur, there would ideally be improvements in the assays for free thyroxine in pregnancy. The evidence suggests that, just as in the non-pregnant situation, pregnancy guidelines based on thyrotropin levels may need revision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P. Fitzgerald
- The Departments of General Medicine and Endocrinology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Stephen P. Fitzgerald,
| | - Nigel G. Bean
- Adjunct Professor, School of Mathematical Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Samuel P. Fitzgerald
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Townsville Hospital, Townsville, QLD, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Neves JS, Fontes-Carvalho R, Borges-Canha M, Leite AR, von Hafe M, Vale C, Martins S, Guimarães JT, Carvalho D, Leite-Moreira A, Azevedo A. Association of thyroid function, within the euthyroid range, with cardiovascular risk: The EPIPorto study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1067801. [PMID: 36518251 PMCID: PMC9742360 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1067801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid hormones are important modulators of cardiovascular function. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are known to contribute to an increased cardiovascular risk. It remains uncertain whether thyroid hormones level within the euthyroid range are associated with cardiometabolic risk. We aimed to evaluate the association between thyroid function levels within the euthyroid range and cardiovascular risk in a population-based cohort. METHODS Eight hundred thirty-five subjects aged ≥45 years from the EPIPorto population-based cohort were included. We excluded participants with TSH, free T4 (FT4), or free T3 (FT3) outside of the reference range, or with previous cardiovascular or thyroid disease. The associations between thyroid function, cardiovascular risk factors and the 10-year estimated risk of cardiovascular events (using SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP) were evaluated in linear and logistic regression models, crudely and adjusting for age, sex, BMI, diabetes, and smoking. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 61.5 (SD 10.5) years and 38.9% were men. Eleven percent of the participants had diabetes, 47.8% had dyslipidemia, and 54.8% had hypertension. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.4 (SD 4.6) kg/m2, and the median (percentile25-75) 10-year risk of cardiovascular events was 5.46% (2.92, 10.11). Participants with higher BMI, larger waist circumference and higher hs-CRP had higher levels of FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio. Lower FT3/FT4 ratio and higher FT4 levels were associated with higher prevalence of diabetes and more adverse lipid profile. Higher TSH, lower FT3 and lower FT3/FT4 ratio were associated with lower eGFR. Lower FT3, lower FT3/FT4 ratio and higher FT4 were associated with an increased 10-year risk of cardiovascular events. CONCLUSIONS In a population-based study, variations of thyroid function within the euthyroid range were associated with cardiovascular risk factors. On one hand, individuals with higher BMI, larger waist circumference and higher hs-CRP had higher levels of FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio. On the other hand, a decreased conversion of T4 to T3 (lower FT3, lower FT3/FT4 ratio and/or higher FT4) was associated with a higher prevalence of diabetes, a more adverse lipid profile, a lower eGFR and an increased 10-year risk of cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Sérgio Neves
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: João Sérgio Neves,
| | - Ricardo Fontes-Carvalho
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Cardiology, Centro Hospitalar Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Marta Borges-Canha
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Leite
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Madalena von Hafe
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Vale
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Martins
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit – Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Tiago Guimarães
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit – Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Davide Carvalho
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adelino Leite-Moreira
- Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Azevedo
- EPIUnit – Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Abstract
Hypothyroidism is a common condition with a prevalence that varies according to local dietary iodine availability, gender and age. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are generally nonspecific, with considerable overlap with other conditions and with the consequences for the health of advancing age. These symptoms are not useful for diagnosing hypothyroidism and a thyroid function test is required for a firm clinical diagnosis. Lack of knowledge and understanding of hypothyroidism, and a tendency for many people to attribute the symptoms of hypothyroidism to other causes have led to substantial unawareness and often late diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Large observational studies and meta-analyses have shown that about 4-7% of community-derived populations in the USA and Europe have undiagnosed hypothyroidism. About four cases in five of these are subclinical hypothyroidism, with the remainder being overt hypothyroidism. The prevalence of undiagnosed hypothyroidism is higher in older subjects, in women, and some ethnic groups, consistent with diagnosed disease. More research is needed to quantify the clinical burden of undiagnosed hypothyroidism around the world, with educational efforts aimed at the public and healthcare professionals aimed at identifying and managing these individuals.
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Aweimer A, Schiedat F, Schöne D, Landgrafe-Mende G, Bogossian H, Mügge A, Patsalis PC, Gotzmann M, Akin I, El-Battrawy I, Dietrich JW. Abnormal Cardiac Repolarization in Thyroid Diseases: Results of an Observational Study. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:738517. [PMID: 34888359 PMCID: PMC8649843 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.738517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The relationship between thyroid function and cardiac disease is complex. Both hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis can predispose to ventricular arrhythmia and other major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), so that a U-shaped relationship between thyroid signaling and the incidence of MACE has been postulated. Moreover, recently published data suggest an association between thyroid hormone concentration and the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) even in euthyroid populations with high-normal FT4 levels. In this study, we investigated markers of repolarization in ECGs, as predictors of cardiovascular events, in patients with a spectrum of subclinical and overt thyroid dysfunction. Methods: Resting ECGs of 100 subjects, 90 patients (LV-EF > 45%) with thyroid disease (60 overt hyperthyroid, 11 overt hypothyroid and 19 L-T4-treated and biochemically euthyroid patients after thyroidectomy or with autoimmune thyroiditis) and 10 healthy volunteers were analyzed for Tp-e interval. The Tp-e interval was measured manually and was correlated to serum concentrations of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3) and thyroxine (FT4). Results: The Tp-e interval significantly correlated to log-transformed concentrations of TSH (Spearman's rho = 0.30, p < 0.01), FT4 (rho = −0.26, p < 0.05), and FT3 (rho = −0.23, p < 0.05) as well as log-transformed thyroid's secretory capacity (SPINA-GT, rho = −0.33, p < 0.01). Spearman's rho of correlations of JT interval to log-transformed TSH, FT4, FT3, and SPINA-GT were 0.51 (p < 1e−7), −0.45 (p < 1e−5), −0.55 (p < 1e−8), and −0.43 (p < 1e−4), respectively. In minimal multivariable regression models, markers of thyroid homeostasis correlated to heart rate, QT, Tp-e, and JT intervals. Group-wise evaluation in hypothyroid, euthyroid and hyperthyroid subjects revealed similar correlations in all three groups. Conclusion: We observed significant inverse correlations of Tp-e and JT intervals with FT4 and FT3 over the whole spectrum of thyroid function. Our data suggest a possible mechanism of SCD in hypothyroid state by prolongation of repolarization. We do not observe a U-shaped relationship, so that the mechanism of SCD in patients with high FT4 or hyperthyroidism seems not to be driven by abnormalities in repolarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assem Aweimer
- Cardiology and Angiology Department, Medical Hospital II, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Fabian Schiedat
- Department of Cardiology, St. Mary's Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Gelsenkirchen, Germany
| | - Dominik Schöne
- Department of Cardiology, St. Mary's Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Gelsenkirchen, Germany
| | - Gabi Landgrafe-Mende
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Section, Department of Medicine I, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Harilaos Bogossian
- Cardiology and Rhythmology Department, EvK Hospital Hagen-Haspe, Witten-Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Andreas Mügge
- Cardiology and Angiology Department, Medical Hospital II, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, University Hospital St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Polykarpos C Patsalis
- Cardiology and Angiology Department, Medical Hospital II, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Michael Gotzmann
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ibrahim Akin
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ibrahim El-Battrawy
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Johannes W Dietrich
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Section, Department of Medicine I, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Ruhr Centre of Rare Diseases, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Ruhr Centre of Rare Diseases, Witten-Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.,Diabetes Centre Bochum/Hattingen, Blankenstein Hospital, Hattingen, Germany
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Gottwald-Hostalek U, Kahaly GJ. Triiodothyronine alongside levothyroxine in the management of hypothyroidism? Curr Med Res Opin 2021; 37:2099-2106. [PMID: 34553643 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2021.1984219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The current guideline-based management of hypothyroidism recommends monotherapy with levothyroxine (LT4), titrated to maintain the level of thyrotropin within a euthyroid reference range. This has been successful for most people with hypothyroidism, but a substantial minority still report symptoms of hypothyroidism unexplained by a comorbid medical condition. LT4 is essentially a prodrug for triiodothyronine (T3), the thyroid hormone that acts on target tissues in the brain and the periphery. Thyroid hormone replacement with LT4 alone does not restore physiological tissue levels of thyroid hormones, particularly T3. During the last two decades, much interest has focussed on the potential of combinations of LT4 and T3 to provide a superior outcome to LT4 monotherapy for people with hypothyroidism, especially those with residual symptoms despite thyrotropin-optimized LT4. This review seeks to provide an overview of currently available evidence on combination (LT4 + T3) therapy to be used for personalized medicine in patients with hypothyroidism. A number of randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) have failed to demonstrate superiority for the combination therapy approach, largely due to non-physiological T3 doses. However, patients with hypothyroidism are highly heterogeneous in terms of their residual thyroid function, individual set points for optimal thyroid homeostasis and for the presence or absence of polymorphisms in deiodinase enzymes in tissues that activate and deactivate circulating thyroid hormones. Accordingly, these RCTs may have failed to demonstrate benefits of combination therapy in individual hypothyroid phenotypes. The pharmacokinetics of LT4 and T3 also differ, which is a barrier to their co-administration. Future clinical trials using LT4 + T3 tablets better suited for combination therapy will resolve the outstanding research questions relating to the place of LT4 + T3 combination therapy in the management of hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George J Kahaly
- Department of Medicine I, Johannes Gutenberg-University Medical Centre, Mainz, Germany
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Correia ASDS, Nascimento MLF, Teixeira LBBDM, E Silva SO, Vaisman M, Teixeira PFS. Free thyroxine but not TSH levels are associated with decline in functional status in a cohort of geriatric outpatients. Eur Geriatr Med 2021; 13:147-154. [PMID: 34817842 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-021-00589-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the associations between TSH and free thyroxine (FT4) levels and decline in functional status in euthyroid older patients at risk of frailty. DESIGN Longitudinal prospective study. METHODS Participants from the geriatric outpatient clinic of a university hospital, who fulfilled the criteria for frailty or were at risk of frailty, were recruited. Only those euthyroid, defined by age-specific reference range of TSH, were included. Serum was collected during enrollment and at the third and sixth years of follow-up to assess the mean value of all follow-up levels of serum TSH and FT4. Functional status assessing activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental ADL were evaluated using the Katz Index and the Health Assessment Questionnaire, respectively. Functional decline was defined by a positive variation in any of the applied scales in the absence of disagreement between the scales or if the patient was institutionalized. RESULTS Of the 273 participants (72.5% females) enrolled (mean age 80 years old), 48 died and 102 presented functional decline at the end of follow-up (mean 3.6 ± 1.7 years). Each 0.1 ng/dL increase in baseline and mean follow-up serum FT4 levels increased the risk of functional decline by 14.1% and 7.7%, respectively. The risk of functional decline was 9 times greater with baseline FT4 levels in the fourth and fifth quintiles (p = 0.049) and 50% lower with baseline FT4 levels in the first quintile (p = 0.046). No association between TSH and the outcome was found. CONCLUSIONS Higher and lower FT4 levels were, respectively, a risk and a protective factor for the decline in functional status in a cohort of euthyroid older adults at risk of frailty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline S da S Correia
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco K, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Michele L F Nascimento
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco K, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil.,Hospital Antônio Pedro, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Letícia B B de M Teixeira
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco K, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Silvana O E Silva
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco K, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Mário Vaisman
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco K, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Patricia F S Teixeira
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373. Edifício do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Bloco K, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
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Fitzgerald SP, Bean NG, Hennessey JV, Falhammar H. Thyroid testing paradigm switch from thyrotropin to thyroid hormones-Future directions and opportunities in clinical medicine and research. Endocrine 2021; 74:285-289. [PMID: 34449031 PMCID: PMC8497305 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02851-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recently published papers have demonstrated that particularly in untreated individuals, clinical parameters more often associate with thyroid hormone, particularly free thyroxine (FT4), levels than with thyrotropin (TSH) levels. Clinical and research assessments of the thyroid state of peripheral tissues would therefore be more precise if they were based on FT4 levels rather than on TSH levels. In this paper we describe implications of, and opportunities provided by, this discovery. CONCLUSIONS The FT4 level may be the best single test of thyroid function. The addition of free triiodothyronine (FT3) and TSH levels would further enhance test sensitivity and distinguish primary from secondary thyroid dysfunction respectively. There are opportunities to reconsider testing algorithms. Additional potential thyroidology research subjects include the peripheral differences between circulating FT4 and FT3 action, and outcomes in patients on thyroid replacement therapy in terms of thyroid hormone levels. Previously performed negative studies of therapy for subclinical thyroid dysfunction could be repeated using thyroid hormone levels rather than TSH levels for subject selection and the monitoring of treatment. Studies of outcomes in older individuals with treatment of high normal FT4 levels, and pregnant women with borderline high or low FT4 levels would appear to be the most likely to show positive results. There are fresh indications to critically re-analyse the physiological rationale for the current preference for TSH levels in the assessment of the thyroid state of the peripheral tissues. There may be opportunities to apply these research principles to analogous parameters in other endocrine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P Fitzgerald
- The Departments of General Medicine and Endocrinology, The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, South Australia.
- The University of Adelaide, School of Medicine, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Nigel G Bean
- School of Mathematical Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - James V Hennessey
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Menzies School of Health Research and Royal Darwin Hospital, DARWIN, NT, Australia
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Koehler VF, Bojunga J. [Autoimmune thyroid disease]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2021; 146:1329-1336. [PMID: 34644793 DOI: 10.1055/a-1258-5674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) is not only one of the most prevalent human autoimmune diseases, but also the most frequent cause of primary hypothyroidism. It is characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid gland with subsequent gradual destruction and fibrous replacement of thyroid tissue. Genetic predisposition, epigenetic modifications and environmental factors are suspected as disease triggers. Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, bradycardia, constipation and cold intolerance. In subclinical hypothyroidism, symptoms may be absent. The diagnosis of AIT is based on the presence of antibodies against thyroid specific antigens, primarily anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies and on a sonographically proven reduced echogenicity of the thyroid parenchyma. The diagnosis of concomitant hypothyroidism is primarily based on clinical signs and symptoms as well as measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-concentration. Subclinical hypothyroidism is characterized by elevated TSH with normal serum free thyroxine (fT4) and triiodothyronine (fT3) levels, while in manifest hypothyroidism serum fT4 and fT3 levels are reduced. Levothyroxine (LT4) treatment in subclinical hypothyroidism is a controversy in the scientific literature and should be discussed individually. It not only depends on the level of TSH-elevation, but also on other factors, such as patient age, presence of comorbidities and clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism. In contrast, overt hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism with a TSH-level > 10 mIU/L is a strong indication for LT4 administration, aiming at rapid achievement of euthyroidism. In patients with dissatisfaction due to persistence of symptoms despite optimal LT4-treatment LT4/T3-combination therapy should be considered, based on expert opinion.
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Wiersinga WM. T4+T3 Combination Therapy: An Unsolved Problem of Increasing Magnitude and Complexity. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2021; 36:938-951. [PMID: 34587734 PMCID: PMC8566135 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2021.501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroxine (T4)+triiodothyronine (T3) combination therapy can be considered in case of persistent symptoms despite normal serum thyroid stimulating hormone in levothyroxine (LT4)-treated hypothyroid patients. Combination therapy has gained popularity in the last two decades, especially in countries with a relatively high gross domestic product. The prevalence of persistent symptoms has also increased; most frequent are complaints about energy levels and fatigue (80% to 90%), weight management (70% to 75%), memory (60% to 80%), and mood (40% to 50%). Pathophysiological explanations for persistent problems are unrealistic patient expectations, comorbidities, somatic symptoms, related disorders (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [DSM-5]), autoimmune neuroinflammation, and low tissue T3. There is fair circumstantial evidence for the latter cause (tissue and specifically brain T3 content is normalized by T4+T3, not by T4 alone), but the other causes are viewed as more relevant in current practice. This might be related to the 'hype' that has emerged surrounding T4+T3 therapy. Although more and better-designed trials are needed to validate the efficacy of T4+T3 combination, the management of persistent symptoms should also be directed towards alternative causes. Improving the doctor-patient relationship and including more and better information is crucial. For example, dissatisfaction with the outcomes of T4 treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism can be anticipated as recent trials have demonstrated that LT4 is hardly effective in improving symptoms associated with subclinical hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmar M Wiersinga
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Papaleontiou M, Levine DA, Reyes-Gastelum D, Hawley ST, Banerjee M, Haymart MR. Thyroid Hormone Therapy and Incident Stroke. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e3890-e3900. [PMID: 34137866 PMCID: PMC8475197 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability and there is a need to identify modifiable risk factors. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the relationship between thyroid hormone treatment intensity and incidence of atrial fibrillation and stroke. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the Veterans Health Administration between 2004 and 2017, with a median follow-up of 59 months. The study population comprised 733 208 thyroid hormone users aged ≥18 years with at least 2 thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) measurements between thyroid hormone initiation and incident event (atrial fibrillation or stroke) or study conclusion (406 030 thyroid hormone users with at least 2 free thyroxine [T4] measurements). RESULTS Overall, 71 333/643 687 (11.08%) participants developed incident atrial fibrillation and 41 931/663 809 (6.32%) stroke. In multivariable analyses controlling for pertinent factors such as age, sex, and prior history of atrial fibrillation, higher incidence of stroke was associated with low TSH or high free T4 levels (ie, exogenous hyperthyroidism; eg, TSH <0.1 mIU/L; OR 1.33; 95% CI, 1.24-1.43; free T4>1.9 ng/dL, OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.06-1.30) and high TSH or low free T4 levels (ie, exogenous hypothyroidism; eg, TSH >5.5 mIU/L; OR 1.29; 95% CI, 1.26-1.33; free T4 <0.7 ng/dL; OR 1.29; 95% CI, 1.22-1.35) compared with euthyroidism (TSH >0.5-5.5 mIU/L and free T4 0.7-1.9 ng/dL). Risk of developing atrial fibrillation and stroke was cumulative over time for both patients with exogenous hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. CONCLUSION Both exogenous hyper- and hypothyroidism were associated with increased risk of stroke, highlighting the importance of patient medication safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Papaleontiou
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Correspondence: Maria Papaleontiou, MD, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Road, Bldg. 16, Rm 453S, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Deborah A Levine
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - David Reyes-Gastelum
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sarah T Hawley
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mousumi Banerjee
- School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Megan R Haymart
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Low serum TSH levels are associated with low values of fat-free mass and body cell mass in the elderly. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10547. [PMID: 34006958 PMCID: PMC8131378 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90178-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies on the association between thyroid function and body composition are conflicting and showed strong differences across age groups. Our aim was to clarify age-specific associations of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels with markers of body composition including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM) and body cell mass (BCM). We used data from two independent population-based cohorts within the framework of the Study of Health in Pomerania. The study population included 5656 individuals aged 20 to 90 years. Markers of body composition were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Serum TSH levels were significantly positively associated with BMI (β = 0.16; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06 to 0.27), waist circumference (β = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.62) and FM (β = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.52), but not with FFM and BCM. Interaction analysis revealed positive associations of serum TSH levels with BMI, waist circumference, FM, FFM and BCM in individuals older than 60 years, while no such associations were observed in younger individuals. We demonstrated that lower serum TSH levels were accompanied with lower values of BMI, waist circumference, FM, FFM, and BCM in the elderly, while no such associations were observed in younger individuals.
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Aweimer A, El-Battrawy I, Akin I, Borggrefe M, Mügge A, Patsalis PC, Urban A, Kummer M, Vasileva S, Stachon A, Hering S, Dietrich JW. Abnormal thyroid function is common in takotsubo syndrome and depends on two distinct mechanisms: results of a multicentre observational study. J Intern Med 2021; 289:675-687. [PMID: 33179374 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several reports have described Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) secondary to thyrotoxicosis. A complex interaction of central and peripheral catecholamines with thyroid homeostasis has been suggested. In this study, we analysed sequential thyroid hormone profiles during the acute phase of TTS. METHODS Thyrotropin (TSH), free T4 (FT4) and free T3 (FT3) concentrations were analysed at predefined time points in 32 patients presenting with TTS or acute coronary syndrome (ACS, n = 16 in each group) in a 2-year period in two German university hospitals. Data were compared to age- and sex-matched controls (10 samples, each of 16 subjects), and an unsupervised machine learning (ML) algorithm identified patterns in the hormone signature. Subjects with thyroid disease and patients receiving amiodarone were excluded from follow-up. RESULTS Among patients with TTS, FT4 concentrations were significantly higher when compared to controls or ACS. Four subjects (25%) suffered from subclinical or overt thyrotoxicosis. Two additional patients developed subclinical or overt thyrotoxicosis during stay in hospital. In four subjects (25%), FT4 concentrations were increased, despite nonsuppressed TSH concentration, representing an elevated set point of thyroid homeostasis. The thyroid hormone profile was normal in only six patients (38%) presenting with TTS. CONCLUSION Abnormal thyroid function is frequent in patients with TTS. Primary hyperthyroidism and an elevated set point of thyroid homeostasis are common in TTS, suggesting a stress-dependent endocrine response or type 2 thyroid allostasis. Thyroid function may be a worthwhile target in treating or preventing TTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Aweimer
- From the, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - I El-Battrawy
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - I Akin
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - M Borggrefe
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - A Mügge
- From the, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - P C Patsalis
- From the, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - A Urban
- Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Intensiv- und Palliativmedizin, Klinikum Kaufbeuren, Kaufbeuren, Germany
| | - M Kummer
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - S Vasileva
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - A Stachon
- Institut für Laboratoriumsmedizin, Westpfalz-Klinikum Kaiserslautern, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - S Hering
- Medizinische Klinik III, Diabetes Zentrum Rheine, Mathias Spital, Rheine, Germany
| | - J W Dietrich
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Ruhr University of Bochum and Witten/Herdecke University, Bochum, Germany
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Effect of the Cut-Off Level for Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone on the Prevalence of Subclinical Hypothyroidism among Infertile Mexican Women. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030417. [PMID: 33804476 PMCID: PMC8001256 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) using two different cut-off levels for TSH values (≥2.5 mIU/L versus ≥4.1 mIU/L). The secondary objective was to analyze the clinical-biochemical characteristics in women with and without SCH. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. In total, 1496 Mexican women with infertility were included: Group 1, women with TSH levels ranging between 0.3 and 2.49 mIU/L, n = 886; Group 2, women with TSH between 2.5 and 4.09 mIU/L, n = 390; and Group 3, women with TSH ≥4.1 mIU/L n = 220. SCH prevalence was 40.7% (CI 95%: 38.3-43.3%) with TSH cut-off ≥ 2.5 mIU/L, and 14.7% (CI 95%: 12.7-16.5%) with TSH cut-off ≥ 4.1 mIU/L, (p = 0.0001). The prevalence of overweight was higher in Group 2 than in Groups 1 and 3. Thyroid autoimmunity, obesity and insulin resistance were higher in Group 3 than in Group 1 (p < 0.05). No other differences were observed between groups. Conclusions: The prevalence of SCH in our selected patients increased almost three times using a TSH cut-off ≥ 2.5 mIU/L compared with a TSH cut-off ≥ 4.1 mIU/L. Women with TSH ≥4.1 mIU/L compared with TSH cut-off ≤ 2.5 mIU/L more often presented with obesity, thyroid autoimmunity and insulin resistance.
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Jonklaas J, Bianco AC, Cappola AR, Celi FS, Fliers E, Heuer H, McAninch EA, Moeller LC, Nygaard B, Sawka AM, Watt T, Dayan CM. Evidence-Based Use of Levothyroxine/Liothyronine Combinations in Treating Hypothyroidism: A Consensus Document. Eur Thyroid J 2021; 10:10-38. [PMID: 33777817 PMCID: PMC7983670 DOI: 10.1159/000512970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fourteen clinical trials have not shown a consistent benefit of combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) and liothyronine (LT3). Despite the publication of these trials, combination therapy is widely used and patients reporting benefit continue to generate patient and physician interest in this area. Recent scientific developments may provide insight into this inconsistency and guide future studies. METHODS The American Thyroid Association (ATA), British Thyroid Association (BTA), and European Thyroid Association (ETA) held a joint conference on November 3, 2019 (live-streamed between Chicago and London) to review new basic science and clinical evidence regarding combination therapy with presentations and input from 12 content experts. After the presentations, the material was synthesized and used to develop Summary Statements of the current state of knowledge. After review and revision of the material and Summary Statements, there was agreement that there was equipoise for a new clinical trial of combination therapy. Consensus Statements encapsulating the implications of the material discussed with respect to the design of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy were generated. Authors voted upon the Consensus Statements. Iterative changes were made in several rounds of voting and after comments from ATA/BTA/ETA members. RESULTS Of 34 Consensus Statements available for voting, 28 received at least 75% agreement, with 13 receiving 100% agreement. Those with 100% agreement included studies being powered to study the effect of deiodinase and thyroid hormone transporter polymorphisms on study outcomes, inclusion of patients dissatisfied with their current therapy and requiring at least 1.2 µg/kg of LT4 daily, use of twice daily LT3 or preferably a slow-release preparation if available, use of patient-reported outcomes as a primary outcome (measured by a tool with both relevant content validity and responsiveness) and patient preference as a secondary outcome, and utilization of a randomized placebo-controlled adequately powered double-blinded parallel design. The remaining statements are presented as potential additional considerations. DISCUSSION This article summarizes the areas discussed and presents Consensus Statements to guide development of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy. The results of such redesigned trials are expected to be of benefit to patients and of value to inform future thyroid hormone replacement clinical practice guidelines treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- *Jacqueline Jonklaas, Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road, NW, Washington, DC 20007 (USA),
| | - Antonio C. Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anne R. Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francesco S. Celi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Heike Heuer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Lars C. Moeller
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Birte Nygaard
- Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospitals, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anna M. Sawka
- Division of Endocrinology, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Colin M. Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- **Colin M. Dayan, Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, C2 Link, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN (UK),
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Gong IY, Atzema CL, Lega IC, Austin PC, Na Y, Rochon PA, Lipscombe LL. Levothyroxine dose and risk of atrial fibrillation: A nested case-control study. Am Heart J 2021; 232:47-56. [PMID: 33022231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2020.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Contemporary data on the effect of levothyroxine dose on the occurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) are lacking, particularly in the older population. Our objective was to determine the effect of cumulative levothyroxine exposure on risk of AF and ischemic stroke in older adults. METHODS We conducted a population-based observational study using health care databases from Ontario, Canada. We identified adults aged ≥66 years without a history of AF who filled at least 1 levothyroxine prescription between April 1, 2007, and March 31, 2016. Cases were defined as cohort members who had incident AF (emergency room visit or hospitalization) between the date of first levothyroxine prescription and December 31, 2017. Index date was date of AF. Cases were matched with up to 5 controls without AF on the same index date. Secondary outcome was ischemic stroke. Cumulative levothyroxine exposure was estimated based on total milligrams of levothyroxine dispensed in the year prior to index date. Using nested case-control approach, we compared outcomes between older adults who received high (≥0.125 mg/d), medium (0.075-0.125 mg/d), or low (0-0.075 mg/d) cumulative levothyroxine dose. We compared outcomes between current, recent past, and remote past levothyroxine use. RESULTS Of 183,360 older adults treated with levothyroxine (mean age 82 years; 72% women), 30,560 (16.1%) had an episode of AF. Compared to low levothyroxine exposure, high and medium exposure was associated with significantly increased risk of AF after adjustment for covariates (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.29, 95% CI 1.23-1.35; aOR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04-1.11; respectively). No association was observed between levothyroxine exposure and ischemic stroke. Compared with current levothyroxine use, older adults with remote levothyroxine use had lower risks of AF (aOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.52-0.59) and ischemic stroke (aOR 0.61, 95% CI 0.56-0.67). CONCLUSIONS Among older persons treated with levothyroxine, levothyroxine at doses >0.075 mg/d is associated with an increased risk of AF compared to lower exposure.
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Jonklaas J, Bianco AC, Cappola AR, Celi FS, Fliers E, Heuer H, McAninch EA, Moeller LC, Nygaard B, Sawka AM, Watt T, Dayan CM. Evidence-Based Use of Levothyroxine/Liothyronine Combinations in Treating Hypothyroidism: A Consensus Document. Thyroid 2021; 31:156-182. [PMID: 33276704 PMCID: PMC8035928 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2020.0720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Fourteen clinical trials have not shown a consistent benefit of combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) and liothyronine (LT3). Despite the publication of these trials, combination therapy is widely used and patients reporting benefit continue to generate patient and physician interest in this area. Recent scientific developments may provide insight into this inconsistency and guide future studies. Methods: The American Thyroid Association (ATA), British Thyroid Association (BTA), and European Thyroid Association (ETA) held a joint conference on November 3, 2019 (live-streamed between Chicago and London) to review new basic science and clinical evidence regarding combination therapy with presentations and input from 12 content experts. After the presentations, the material was synthesized and used to develop Summary Statements of the current state of knowledge. After review and revision of the material and Summary Statements, there was agreement that there was equipoise for a new clinical trial of combination therapy. Consensus Statements encapsulating the implications of the material discussed with respect to the design of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy were generated. Authors voted upon the Consensus Statements. Iterative changes were made in several rounds of voting and after comments from ATA/BTA/ETA members. Results: Of 34 Consensus Statements available for voting, 28 received at least 75% agreement, with 13 receiving 100% agreement. Those with 100% agreement included studies being powered to study the effect of deiodinase and thyroid hormone transporter polymorphisms on study outcomes, inclusion of patients dissatisfied with their current therapy and requiring at least 1.2 μg/kg of LT4 daily, use of twice daily LT3 or preferably a slow-release preparation if available, use of patient-reported outcomes as a primary outcome (measured by a tool with both relevant content validity and responsiveness) and patient preference as a secondary outcome, and utilization of a randomized placebo-controlled adequately powered double-blinded parallel design. The remaining statements are presented as potential additional considerations. Discussion: This article summarizes the areas discussed and presents Consensus Statements to guide development of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy. The results of such redesigned trials are expected to be of benefit to patients and of value to inform future thyroid hormone replacement clinical practice guidelines treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Address correspondence to: Jacqueline Jonklaas, MD, PhD, Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road, NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Antonio C. Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anne R. Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francesco S. Celi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Heike Heuer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Lars C. Moeller
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Birte Nygaard
- Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department Internal Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospitals, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anna M. Sawka
- Division of Endocrinology, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Colin M. Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Address correspondence to: Colin M. Dayan, MD, PhD, Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, C2 Link, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
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Gencer B, Cappola AR, Rodondi N, Collet TH. Challenges in the Management of Atrial Fibrillation With Subclinical Hyperthyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:795492. [PMID: 35058884 PMCID: PMC8764445 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.795492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Subclinical thyroid disorders have a high prevalence among older individuals and women. Subclinical hypothyroidism is diagnosed by elevated serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) with thyroxine levels within the reference range, and subclinical hyperthyroidism is diagnosed by low TSH in conjunction with thyroxine and triiodothyronine levels within reference ranges. Atrial fibrillation is the most commonly diagnosed cardiac arrhythmia and has been associated with an increased risk of mortality, heart failure, stroke, and depression. Mechanistic data from animal and human physiology studies as well as observational data in humans support an association of subclinical hyperthyroidism with atrial fibrillation. Guidelines recommend the measurement of TSH in the evaluation of new-onset atrial fibrillation. All patients with overt hyperthyroidism should be treated, and treatment of subclinical hyperthyroidism should be considered in patients older than 65 years with TSH < 0.4 mlU/L, or in younger patients with TSH < 0.1 mlU/L. Guidelines also recommend screening for AF in patients with known hyperthyroidism. Wearable devices that measure the heart electrical activity continuously may be a novel strategy to detect atrial fibrillation in patients at risk. In this review, we explore the interplay between thyroid hormones and atrial fibrillation, management controversies in subclinical hyperthyroidism, and potential strategies to improve the management of atrial fibrillation in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Gencer
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anne R. Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Nicolas Rodondi
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tinh-Hai Collet
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Nutrition and Therapeutic Education, Department of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Tinh-Hai Collet,
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