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Lafontaine N, Brown SJ, Perros P, Papini E, Nagy EV, Attanasio R, Hegedüs L, Walsh JP. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: A survey of members of the Endocrine Society of Australia. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2024; 100:477-485. [PMID: 38462996 DOI: 10.1111/cen.15049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine condition usually managed with levothyroxine (LT4). However, controversy remains around the use of liothyronine (LT3). We aimed to investigate the practices of Australian endocrinologists when managing patients with hypothyroidism, their use of LT3 + LT4 combination therapy and use of thyroid hormones in euthyroid patients. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS Members of the Endocrine Society of Australia (ESA) were invited to participate in an online questionnaire. MEASUREMENTS We analysed questionnaires that had complete demographic data. RESULTS Eighty-seven questionnaires fulfilled the criteria. LT4 was used as first line treatment for hypothyroidism by all respondents. Only 45% reported that their patients were dispensed the brand of LT4 that they recommend. LT3 (alone or in combination) was prescribed by 44% in their clinical practice. Although 49% of respondents would consider LT3 + LT4 in patients with normal TSH who had ongoing symptoms of hypothyroidism, the inability of LT4 to restore normal physiology was ranked the least likely explanation for persistent symptoms and only 32% would consider it for themselves if they were diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The majority (55%), in accordance with evidence, would not prescribe thyroid hormone to euthyroid individuals but 39% would consider use in euthyroid female infertility with high levels of thyroid antibodies and 11% in euthyroid patients with a simple goitre growing over time. LT4 use in pregnancy was variable among members. CONCLUSIONS Australian endocrinologists mostly follow international guidelines when prescribing thyroid hormone therapy and many prescribe combination LT3 and LT4 therapy, particularly for patients who remain symptomatic on LT4 monotherapy. Prescribing practices are largely similar to other countries who have completed similar questionnaires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lafontaine
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Suzanne J Brown
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Petros Perros
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ospedale Regina Apostolorum, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Italian Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Scientific Committee, Milan, Italy
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - John P Walsh
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Australia
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Ettleson MD, Ibarra S, Wan W, Peterson S, Laiteerapong N, Bianco AC. Demographic, Healthcare Access, and Dietary Factors Associated With Thyroid Hormone Treatments for Hypothyroidism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e1614-e1623. [PMID: 37327351 PMCID: PMC10655529 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Clinical guidelines have recommended a trial of liothyronine (LT3) with levothyroxine (LT4) in select patients with hypothyroidism. However, little is known about the real-world use of LT3 and desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) and the characteristics of patients treated with LT3 and DTE. OBJECTIVES (1) Determine national trends of new LT4, LT3, and DTE prescriptions in the United States; (2) determine whether sociodemographic, healthcare access, and dietary factors are associated with different thyroid hormone (TH) therapies. METHODS Parallel cross-sectional studies were conducted using 2 datasets: (1) a national patient claims dataset (2010-2020) and (2) the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES) dataset (1999-2016). Included participants had a diagnosis of primary or subclinical hypothyroidism. Study outcomes included the impact of demographics and healthcare access on differences in the proportion of TH therapies consisting of LT4, LT3, and DTE (patient claims) and differences in dietary behaviors between DTE-treated participants and LT4-treated matched controls (NHANES). RESULTS On an average annual basis, 47 711 adults received at least 1 new TH prescription, with 88.3% receiving LT4 monotherapy, 2.0% receiving LT3 therapy, and 9.4% receiving DTE therapy. The proportion receiving DTE therapy increased from 5.4% in 2010 to 10.2% in 2020. In the analysis between states, high primary care and endocrinology physician densities were associated with increased use of LT4 monotherapy (odds ratio 2.51, P < .001 and odds ratio 2.71, P < .001). DTE-treated NHANES participants (n = 73) consumed more dietary supplements compared to LT4-treated participants (n = 146) (4.7 vs 2.1, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS The proportion of new TH therapies containing DTE for hypothyroidism doubled since 2010 while LT3 therapies remained stable. DTE treatment was associated with decreased physician density and increased dietary supplement use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Ettleson
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sabrina Ibarra
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Wen Wan
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sarah Peterson
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Neda Laiteerapong
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Žarković M, Attanasio R, Nagy EV, Negro R, Papini E, Perros P, Cohen CA, Akarsu E, Alevizaki M, Ayvaz G, Bednarczuk T, Berta E, Bodor M, Borissova AM, Boyanov M, Buffet C, Burlacu MC, Ćirić J, Díez JJ, Dobnig H, Fadeyev V, Field BCT, Fliers E, Frølich JS, Führer D, Galofré JC, Hakala T, Jiskra J, Kopp P, Krebs M, Kršek M, Kužma M, Lantz M, Lazúrová I, Leenhardt L, Luchytskiy V, McGowan A, Melo M, Metso S, Moran C, Morgunova T, Mykola T, Beleslin BN, Niculescu DA, Perić B, Planck T, Poiana C, Puga FM, Robenshtok E, Rosselet P, Ruchala M, Riis KR, Shepelkevich A, Unuane D, Vardarli I, Visser WE, Vrionidou A, Younes YR, Yurenya E, Hegedüs L. Characteristics of specialists treating hypothyroid patients: the "THESIS" collaborative. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1225202. [PMID: 38027187 PMCID: PMC10660282 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1225202] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Thyroid specialists influence how hypothyroid patients are treated, including patients managed in primary care. Given that physician characteristics influence patient care, this study aimed to explore thyroid specialist profiles and associations with geo-economic factors. Methods Thyroid specialists from 28 countries were invited to respond to a questionnaire, Treatment of Hypothyroidism in Europe by Specialists: an International Survey (THESIS). Geographic regions were defined according to the United Nations Statistics Division. The national economic status was estimated using World Bank data on the gross national income per capita (GNI per capita). Results 5,695 valid responses were received (response rate 33·0%). The mean age was 49 years, and 65·0% were female. The proportion of female respondents was lowest in Northern (45·6%) and highest in Eastern Europe (77·2%) (p <0·001). Respondent work volume, university affiliation and private practice differed significantly between countries (p<0·001). Age and GNI per capita were correlated inversely with the proportion of female respondents (p<0·01). GNI per capita was inversely related to the proportion of respondents working exclusively in private practice (p<0·011) and the proportion of respondents who treated >100 patients annually (p<0·01). Discussion THESIS has demonstrated differences in characteristics of thyroid specialists at national and regional levels, strongly associated with GNI per capita. Hypothyroid patients in middle-income countries are more likely to encounter female thyroid specialists working in private practice, with a high workload, compared to high-income countries. Whether these differences influence the quality of care and patient satisfaction is unknown, but merits further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miloš Žarković
- University of Belgrade Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Scientific Committee, Milan, Italy
| | - Endre V. Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Negro
- Ospedale Vito Fazzi, Department of Endocrinology, Lecce, Italy
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano Laziale, Roma, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ersin Akarsu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Göksun Ayvaz
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Koru Ankara Hospital, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Tomasz Bednarczuk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Eszter Berta
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Miklos Bodor
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anna Maria Borissova
- Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski, Medical Faculty, Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospital “Sofiamed”, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mihail Boyanov
- University Hospital Alexandrovska, Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medical University-Sofia, Internal Medicine, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Camille Buffet
- GRC n 16, GRC Thyroid Tumors, Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Maria-Cristina Burlacu
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Université Catholique De Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jasmina Ćirić
- University of Belgrade Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Juan J. Díez
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Puerta De Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto De Investigación Sanitaria Puerta De Hierro Segovia De Arana, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma De Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Harald Dobnig
- Thyroid Endocrinology, Osteoporosis Institute Dobnig, Graz, Austria
| | - Valentin Fadeyev
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Benjamin C. T. Field
- University of Surrey Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Section of Clinical Medicine, Prague, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Dagmar Führer
- University Hospital Essen, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University-Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Juan Carlos Galofré
- Departmento De Endocrinologia e Nutrición, Clínica Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Tommi Hakala
- Department of Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jan Jiskra
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Peter Kopp
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Krebs
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Endocrinology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michal Kršek
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Kužma
- 5th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty of Commenius University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mikael Lantz
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Ivica Lazúrová
- P. J. Šafárik University Košice, 1st Department of Internal Medicine of the Medical Faculty, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Laurence Leenhardt
- Hopital Pitie-Salpetriere, Thyroid and Endocrine Tumors Unit, Institut of Endocrinology, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Vitaliy Luchytskiy
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinogy, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V.P. Komissarenko, National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Miguel Melo
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Medical Faculty, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Saara Metso
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tatyana Morgunova
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tronko Mykola
- Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V.P. Komissarenko, National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Biljana Nedeljković Beleslin
- University of Belgrade Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dan Alexandru Niculescu
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Božidar Perić
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases “Mladen Sekso”, University Hospital Center “Sisters of Mercy”, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tereza Planck
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Catalina Poiana
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Francisca Marques Puga
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Service, Porto Hospital and University Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eyal Robenshtok
- Endocrinology Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Tel Aviv University Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Marek Ruchala
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Kamilla Ryom Riis
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Alla Shepelkevich
- Department of Endocrinology, Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
| | - David Unuane
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Irfan Vardarli
- Department of Medicine I, Klinikum Vest GmbH, Knappschaftskrankenhaus Recklinghausen, Recklinghausen, Germany
- 5th Medical Department, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - W. Edward Visser
- Rotterdam Thyroid Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andromachi Vrionidou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Younes R. Younes
- East Surrey Hospital, Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Redhill, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Mustafa M, Ali E, McGowan A, McCabe L, Hegedüs L, Attanasio R, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Moran C. Use of Thyroid Hormones in Hypothyroid and Euthyroid Patients: A THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Irish Endocrine Society. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:2179-2187. [PMID: 36482281 PMCID: PMC10522726 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-03235-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: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Replacement of thyroid hormones (TH) with Levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism, however, there are aspects of treatment where uncertainties exist and practice varies. Factors influencing initiation and choice of TH replacement may impact patient satisfaction, safety, and health care costs. METHODS The aim of the study was to examine the attitudes of Irish endocrinologists regarding the treatment of hypothyroid and euthyroid patients with TH. Members of the Irish Endocrine Society (IES) were invited to participate in an online survey. RESULTS Forty-eight invitations were sent, and 39 (81.3%) participants responded. All respondents favoured LT4 tablet therapy for treatment of hypothyroidism, but 20.5% prescribed combination therapy (LT4 and liothyronine), and 13% regularly used desiccated thyroid extract. A significant proportion (51%) might prescribe TH in euthyroid patients; 41% for thyroid auto-antibody positive women seeking pregnancy, 18% for goitre and 5% for unexplained fatigue. Many (38%) consider combination therapy in patients with persistent symptoms. Respondents reported seeing LT4 treated patients with persistent symptomatology more frequently and perceive psychosocial factors and comorbidities to be the most common reasons for such symptoms. CONCLUSION LT4 tablets are the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism in Ireland. Approximately a third of Irish endocrinologists either regularly use, or would consider, liothyronine for hypothyroid patients. A significant proportion would give TH to euthyroid individuals in specific circumstances. The prescription of TH amongst Irish endocrinologists was generally in keeping with recommended practice, and areas where practice deviated from guidance were typically where evidence was conflicting or insufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Mustafa
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elsheikh Ali
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laura McCabe
- Pharmacy Department, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Endre V. Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Opsedale Regina Apostolorum, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Sandyford, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Cassemiro JF, Ilera V, Batalles S, Reyes A, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Hegedüs L, Ramos HE. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a 2022 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Latin American Thyroid Society (LATS). Thyroid Res 2023; 16:40. [PMID: 37773072 PMCID: PMC10542243 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00182-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Inconsistencies in the medical management of hypothyroidism have been reported between endocrinologists in different countries. This study aimed to identify the attitudes of Latin America thyroid specialists towards the use of thyroid hormones. METHODS Online survey of members of the Latin America Thyroid Society. RESULTS 81/446 (18.2%) completed the questionnaire. Levothyroxine (LT4) was the initial treatment of choice for all respondents. 56.8% would consider LT4 use in biochemically euthyroid patients: infertile women with elevated anti-thyroid antibodies (46.9%), resistant depression (17.3%) and growing goiter (12%). Most respondents preferred tablets (39.5%) over liquid formulations (21.0%) or soft gel capsules (22.2%) and would not consider switching formulations in patients with persistent symptoms. 39.5% would never use LT4 + liothyronine (LT3) combination therapy in symptomatic euthyroid patients, due to low quality evidence for benefit. 60.5% reported that persistence of symptoms despite normal TSH is rare (below 5% of patients) and its prevalence has been stable over the last five years. Psychosocial factors (84.0%), comorbidities (86.4%) and the patient unrealistic expectation (72.8%) were considered the top three explanations for this phenomenon. CONCLUSION LT4 tablets is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism. A significant proportion of respondents would use LT4 in some groups of euthyroid individuals, contrasting the recommendations of the major clinical practice guideline indications. LT4 + LT3 combination treatment in euthyroid symptomatic patients was considered by nearly 50%. Practices based on weak or absent evidence included use of thyroid hormones for euthyroid subjects by 56.8% of respondents and use of LT4 + LT3 treatment by 60.5% of respondents for patients with persistent symptoms. In contrast to many European countries, LATS respondents report a low and unchanged proportion of dissatisfied patients over the last five years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Cassemiro
- Department of Bioregulation, Health & Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Reitor Miguel Calmon, S/N. Vale do Canela. Room 325, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Veronica Ilera
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Ramos Mejía, Caba, Argentina
| | | | - Adriana Reyes
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Ramos Mejía, Caba, Argentina
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helton Estrela Ramos
- Department of Bioregulation, Health & Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Reitor Miguel Calmon, S/N. Vale do Canela. Room 325, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
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Perros P, Nagy EV, Papini E, Van Der Feltz-Cornelis CM, Weetman AP, Hay HA, Abad-Madroñero J, Tallett AJ, Bilas M, Lakwijk P, Poots AJ, Hegedüs L. Hypothyroidism and Somatization: Results from E-Mode Patient Self-Assessment of Thyroid Therapy, a Cross-Sectional, International Online Patient Survey. Thyroid 2023; 33:927-939. [PMID: 37134204 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: Between 10% and 15% of hypothyroid patients experience persistent symptoms despite achieving biochemical euthyroidism. Unexplained persistent symptoms can be a sign of somatization. This is associated with distress and high health care resource use and can be classified as somatic symptom disorder (SSD). Prevalence rates for SSD differ depending on classification criteria and how they are ascertained, varying between 4% and 25%. As this has not been studied in hypothyroid patients before, the aim of this study was to document somatization in people with hypothyroidism and to explore associations with other patient characteristics and outcomes. Methods: Online, multinational cross-sectional survey of individuals with self-reported, treated hypothyroidism, which included the validated Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) for assessment of somatization. Chi-squared tests with the Bonferroni correction were used to explore outcomes for respondents with a PHQ-15 score ≥10 (probable somatic symptom disorder [pSSD]) versus a PHQ-15 score <10 (absence of SSD). Results: A total of 3915 responses were received, 3516 of which contained the valid PHQ-15 data (89.8%). The median score was 11.3 (range 0-30 [confidence interval 10.9-11.3]). The prevalence of pSSD was 58.6%. Associations were found between pSSD and young age (p < 0.001), women (p < 0.001), not working (p < 0.001), having below average household income (p < 0.001), being treated with levothyroxine (LT4) (rather than combination of LT4 and L-triiodothyronine [LT3], LT3 alone, or desiccated thyroid extract) (p < 0.001), expression of the view that the thyroid medication taken did not control the symptoms of hypothyroidism well (p < 0.001), and with number of comorbidities (p < 0.001). pSSD was associated with respondent attribution of most PHQ-15 symptoms to the hypothyroidism or its treatment (p < 0.001), dissatisfaction with care and treatment of hypothyroidism (p < 0.001), a negative impact of hypothyroidism on daily living (p < 0.001), and with anxiety and low mood/depression (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of pSSD among people with hypothyroidism and associations between pSSD and negative patient outcomes, including a tendency to attribute persistent symptoms to hypothyroidism or its treatment. SSD may be an important determinant of dissatisfaction with treatment and care among some hypothyroid patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Endre Vezekenyi Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Rome, Italy
| | - Christina Maria Van Der Feltz-Cornelis
- Department of Health Sciences, HYMS, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Megan Bilas
- Picker Institute Europe, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Lakwijk
- Thyroid Federation International, Transpolispark, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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7
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Younes YR, Perros P, Hegedüs L, Papini E, Nagy EV, Attanasio R, Negro R, Field BCT. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: A THESIS questionnaire survey of UK endocrinologists. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 98:238-248. [PMID: 35975405 PMCID: PMC10087612 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14812] [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] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Management of hypothyroidism is controversial because of medication cost pressures and scientific uncertainty on how to address treatment dissatisfaction experienced by some patients. The objective was to investigate the experience and preferences of UK endocrinologists in use of thyroid hormones. DESIGN Web-based survey. PATIENTS UK endocrinologists were invited to participate. MEASUREMENTS Responses to questionnaire. RESULTS The response rate was 21% (272/1295). While levothyroxine monotherapy is regarded as the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism, 51% of respondents stated that combined treatment with levothyroxine and liothyronine could be considered for levothyroxine-treated patients whose symptoms persist despite normalisation of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration. However, only 40% are currently prescribing such treatment, and just 23% would consider taking it themselves. A small minority prescribe desiccated thyroid extract, and those most likely to do so are aged over 60 years. Most respondents stated that they have no influence over brand or formulation of levothyroxine dispensed to their patients and expect no major differences in efficacy between different formulations. A total of 9% would prescribe levothyroxine for euthyroid enlarging goitre, and 29% for euthyroid female infertility with high titre thyroid peroxidase antibodies, despite recent trials finding no benefit. CONCLUSIONS UK endocrine practice in management of hypothyroidism is broadly in line with international guidance. However, a minority of respondents would consider thyroid hormone supplementation in euthyroid individuals for female infertility, enlarging goitre, and other indications in which evidence of efficacy is lacking. Willingness to consider prescribing combined levothyroxine and liothyronine, for hypothyroid symptoms which persist despite normalised TSH, has increased in comparison to previous international surveys, despite inconsistent evidence of benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younes R Younes
- Department of Endocrinology, East Surrey Hospital, Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee, Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Negro
- Division of Endocrinology, V. Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Benjamin C T Field
- Department of Endocrinology, East Surrey Hospital, Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK
- Section of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
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Perros P, Hegedüs L, Nagy EV, Papini E, Hay HA, Abad-Madroñero J, Tallett AJ, Bilas M, Lakwijk P, Poots AJ. The Impact of Hypothyroidism on Satisfaction with Care and Treatment and Everyday Living: Results from E-Mode Patient Self-Assessment of Thyroid Therapy, a Cross-Sectional, International Online Patient Survey. Thyroid 2022; 32:1158-1168. [PMID: 35959734 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Hypothyroid patients often report dissatisfaction and poor quality of life. This survey explored the impact of hypothyroidism on patient satisfaction, everyday living, experiences with health care professionals, and influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors. Methods: Cross-sectional questionnaire survey targeting an international population of hypothyroid patients. Multilevel regression modeling was used for analyses. Results: The total number of responses was 3915 from 68 countries. Satisfaction with care and treatment was not associated with type of treatment for hypothyroidism. Having no confidence and trust in health care professionals was strongly associated with dissatisfaction (p < 0.001). Controlling for all other variables, significant differences were found among satisfaction rates between countries. A weak inverse relationship was found between satisfaction with care and treatment and impact on everyday living (p < 0.001). Respondents taking levothyroxine (LT4) alone were more likely to report a positive impact on everyday living (pooled odds ratio 2.376 [confidence interval: 0.941-5.997]) than respondents taking liothyronine-containing treatments. Conclusions: Low levels of satisfaction with care and treatment for hypothyroidism were strongly associated with lack of confidence and trust and negative experiences with health care professionals. Differences in responses between countries were noted, implying the potential influence of national health care systems, socioeconomic and cultural factors. Contrary to widespread anecdotes in social media, this large-scale survey shows no association between type of treatment for hypothyroidism and patient satisfaction, as well as better outcomes on everyday living associated with LT4, compared with liothyronine-containing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Endre Vezekenyi Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Megan Bilas
- Picker Institute Europe, Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Lakwijk
- Thyroid Federation International, Bath, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alan J Poots
- Picker Institute Europe, Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
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Perros P, Hegedus L. Enhanced Well-Being Associated with Thyrotoxicosis: A Neglected Effect of Thyroid Hormones? Int J Endocrinol Metab 2022; 20:e127230. [PMID: 35993034 PMCID: PMC9375936 DOI: 10.5812/ijem-127230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Thyrotoxicosis may be associated with a better sense of well-being than in the euthyroid state, though this is not widely recognised. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A comprehensive literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar, was performed to identify studies investigating factors influencing well-being, mood, and psychological features associated with elevated thyroid hormones. RESULTS Enhanced well-being associated with thyrotoxicosis has been described, although the evidence is observational and anecdotal. CONCLUSIONS Enhanced well-being associated with thyrotoxicosis is probably experienced in a minority of patients and may explain why some seek overtreatment with thyroid hormones and report significant improvement on larger than physiological thyroid hormone replacement regimens. It may also explain why some patients with hyperthyroidism (usually due to Graves' disease) are reluctant to adhere to anti-thyroid medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Corresponding Author: Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Laszlo Hegedus
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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