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Varner MW, Mele L, Casey BM, Peaceman AM, Reddy UM, Wapner RJ, Thorp JM, Saade GR, Tita ATN, Rouse DJ, Sibai BM, Costantine MM, Mercer BM, Caritis SN. Progression of Gestational Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Hypothyroxinemia to Overt Hypothyroidism After Pregnancy: Pooled Analysis of Data from Two Randomized Controlled Trials. Thyroid 2024; 34:1171-1176. [PMID: 39028022 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0616] [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: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Background: To examine the incidence of overt hypothyroidism 1 and 5 years after pregnancies where screening before 21 weeks identified subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) or hypothyroxinemia (HT). Methods: Secondary analysis of two multicenter treatment trials for either SH or HT diagnosed between 8 and 20 weeks gestation. Current analyses focus only on individuals randomized to the placebo groups in the two parallel studies. SH was diagnosed with thyrotropin (TSH) ≥4.0 mU/L and normal free T4 (fT4) (0.86-1.9 ng/dL). HT was diagnosed with normal TSH (0.08-3.99 mU/L) but fT4 <0.86 ng/dL. Serum from initial testing was stored for later thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibody assay; results were not returned for clinical management. At 1 and 5 years after delivery, participants were asked whether they had either been diagnosed with or were being treated for a thyroid condition. Maternal serum was collected at these visits and thyroid function measured. Subsequent overt hypothyroidism was defined as TSH ≥4.0 mU/L with fT4 <0.86 ng/dL. Results: Data for 1- and 5-year follow-up were available in 307 of the 338 participants with SH and 229 of the 261 with HT. Subsequent hypothyroidism was more common both at year 1 (13.4% vs. 3.1%, p < 0.001) and year 5 (15.6% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.001) for participants with SH compared with those with HT. This progression was more common in individuals with TSH values >10 mIU/mL. Baseline TPO level >50 IU/mL in participants with SH was associated with higher rates of hypothyroidism at year 1 (26.7% vs. 6.5%, odds ratio [OR] = 5.3 [confidence interval (CI) 2.6-10.7]) and year 5 (30.5% vs. 7.5%, OR = 5.4 [CI: 2.8-10.6]) compared with those with TPO levels ≤50 IU/mL. For participants with HT, no differences in overt hypothyroidism were seen at 1 year related to baseline TPO level >50 IU/mL (1/10 (10%) vs. 6/218 (2.8%), OR = 3.9 [CI: 0.43-36.1]), but more participants with TPO levels >50 IU/mL developed hypothyroidism by year 5 (2/10 (20%) vs. 4/218 (1.8%), OR = 13.4 [CI: 2.1-84.1]). Conclusion: SH is associated with higher rates of overt hypothyroidism or thyroid replacement therapy within 5 years of delivery than is HT when these conditions are diagnosed in the first half of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Varner
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Lisa Mele
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The George Washington University Biostatistics Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Brian M Casey
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas - Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Alan M Peaceman
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Uma M Reddy
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ronald J Wapner
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - John M Thorp
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - George R Saade
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Alan T N Tita
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Dwight J Rouse
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Baha M Sibai
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maged M Costantine
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Brian M Mercer
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Steve N Caritis
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Hander S, Lee SY. Risk of Progression of Gestational Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Hypothyroxinemia to Overt Hypothyroidism After Pregnancy is Associated with Underlying Thyroid Autoimmunity. Thyroid 2024; 34:1066-1067. [PMID: 39104251 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2024.0435] [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: 08/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Hander
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition & Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sun Y Lee
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition & Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Demartin S, Constantinescu SM, Poppe KG, Maiter D, Furnica RM, Alexopoulou O, Daumerie C, Debiève F, Burlacu MC. Long-term hypothyroidism in patients started on levothyroxine during pregnancy. Eur Thyroid J 2024; 13:e240051. [PMID: 38805588 PMCID: PMC11227096 DOI: 10.1530/etj-24-0051] [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: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Current guidelines recommend different postpartum approaches for patients started on levothyroxine (LT4) during pregnancy. Objective We studied the postpartum management of these patients and determined factors associated with long-term hypothyroidism. Methods A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary center between 2014 and 2020, with LT4 initiation according to 2014 ETA recommendations. We performed multivariate logistic regression (MVR) and a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to determine variables associated with long-term hypothyroidism and their optimal cutoffs. Results LT4 was initiated in 177 pregnant women, and 106/177 (60%) were followed at long-term (at least 6 months post partum) (28.5 (9.0-81.9) months). LT4 could have been stopped in 45% of patients who continued it immediately after delivery. Thirty-six out of 106 (34%) patients were long-term hypothyroid. In them, LT4 was initiated earlier during pregnancy than in euthyroid women (11.7 ± 4.7 vs 13.7 ± 6.5 weeks, P = 0.077), at a higher thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level (4.1 (2.2-10.1) vs 3.5 (0.9-6.9) mU/L, P = 0.005), and reached a higher dose during pregnancy (62.8 ± 22.2 vs 50.7 ± 13.9 µg/day, P = 0.005). In the MVR, only the maximal LT4 dose during pregnancy was associated with long-term hypothyroidism (odds ratio (OR) = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.00-1.05, P = 0.003). The optimal cutoffs for predicting long-term hypothyroidism were an LT4 dose of 68.75 µg/day (87% specificity, 42% sensitivity; P = 0.013) and a TSH level ≥ 3.8 mU/L (68.5% specificity, 77% sensitivity; P = 0.019). Conclusion One-third of the patients who started on LT4 during pregnancy had long-term hypothyroidism. The TSH level at treatment initiation and the LT4 dose during pregnancy could guide the decision for continuing long-term LT4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Demartin
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefan Matei Constantinescu
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kris G Poppe
- Endocrine Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint Pierre, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Rue Haute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dominique Maiter
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Raluca Maria Furnica
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Orsalia Alexopoulou
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Chantal Daumerie
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Frederic Debiève
- Department of Obstetrics, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria-Cristina Burlacu
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Mohammad SM. Treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss in women with euthyroid-based thyroid peroxidase antibody syndrome. J Med Life 2023; 16:1220-1223. [PMID: 38024813 PMCID: PMC10652668 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2023-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) due to thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) syndrome remains a significant challenge in pregnancy. The current study offers better insights into miscarriages that occur due to the presence of TPOAb with euthyroid in pregnant women with a history of RPL. Out of the 347 women confirmed with unexplained RPL, only 70 (20.2%) tested positive for TPOAb (215±53). After eight women were excluded from the study due to failure to follow up, 62 participants (age range: 33±4.8 years; body mass index (BMI):25-30kg/m2 (58%) and >30kg/m2 (42%)) were included. The TPOAb-dependent RPL patients were divided according to their RPL types into 23 (30.7%) nulliparous (1˚) and 39 (69.3%) multiparous (2˚) patients, respectively. Out of the sample, 69.2% and 30.8% had a history of miscarriages during the 1st and 2nd trimesters, respectively. For treatment purposes, while screening for the TPOAb, the women received 50µg/day of L-thyroxine (LTx) for three months prior to pregnancy and during the first three months of pregnancy and were followed up until giving birth or miscarriage. Thyroxine treatment was correlated to successful normal births in 56.6% and 21.2% of pregnant women after 36 and during 28-36 weeks of gestation, respectively. However, miscarriages occurred in 18.1% and 4.1% of patients during 14-28 weeks and before 14 weeks of gestation, respectively. The current findings show the promising use of thyroxine in the control of RPL caused by euthyroid-based thyroid peroxidase antibody syndrome. This treatment has led to a significant number of women experiencing successful full-term pregnancies and giving birth to healthy babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheimaa Mohsen Mohammad
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, College of Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al Diwaniya, Iraq
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Peng CCH, Pearce EN. An update on thyroid disorders in the postpartum period. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1497-1506. [PMID: 35181848 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01762-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of postpartum thyroid dysfunction, and related management of thyroid disorders during lactation. METHODS We reviewed the literature on postpartum thyroid dysfunction and management of thyroid disorders during lactation. RESULTS The postpartum period is characterized by a rebound from the immunotolerance induced by pregnancy. Routine thyroid function screening is not recommended for asymptomatic women in the postpartum period. Testing thyroid function should be considered at 6-12-week postpartum for high-risk populations, including women with a previous episode of postpartum thyroiditis, Graves' disease, or those with Hashimoto's thyroiditis on thyroid hormone replacement, known thyroid peroxidase antibody positivity, type 1 diabetes mellitus, other nonthyroidal autoimmune disease, or chronic hepatitis C. A serum TSH should also be checked in the setting of postpartum depression or difficulty lactating. If patients have thyrotoxicosis, new-onset or recurrent Graves' disease must be differentiated from postpartum thyroiditis, because the management differs. Periodic thyroid function testing is recommended following recovery from postpartum thyroiditis due to high lifetime risk of developing permanent hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine, and the lowest effective dose of antithyroid drugs, (propylthiouracil, methimazole, and carbimazole) can be safely used in lactating women. The use of radiopharmaceutical scanning is avoided during lactation and radioactive iodine treatment is contraindicated. CONCLUSIONS Diagnosing postpartum thyroid dysfunction is challenging, because symptoms may be subtle. A team approach involving primary care providers, endocrinologists, and obstetricians is essential for transitioning thyroid care from the gestational to the postpartum setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C-H Peng
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University School of Medicine, 720 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - E N Pearce
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University School of Medicine, 720 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
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Pearce EN. Management of Hypothyroidism and Hypothyroxinemia in Pregnancy. Endocr Pract 2022; 28:711-718. [PMID: 35569735 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the diagnosis and management of hypothyroidism in pregnancy, preconception, and the postpartum period. METHODS Literature review of English-language papers published between 1982 and 2022, focusing on the most recent literature. RESULTS During pregnancy, thyroid function laboratory tests need to be interpreted with regard to gestational age. Overt hypothyroidism, regardless of the TSH level, should always be promptly treated when it is diagnosed preconception or during pregnancy or lactation. Most women with preexisting treated hypothyroidism will require an increase in levothyroxine dosing to maintain euthyroidism during gestation. levothyroxine-treated pregnant patients need close monitoring with serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to avoid or- or under treatment. There is no consensus about whether to initiate levothyroxine in women with mild forms of gestational thyroid hypofunction. However, in light of current evidence it is reasonable to treat subclinically hypothyroid women with levothyroxine, particularly if the TSH is >10 mIU/L or the thyroperoxidase antibody is positive. Women who are not treated need to be followed to ensure that treatment is initiated promptly if thyroid failure progresses. Additional studies are needed to better understand the effects of the initiation of levothyroxine in early gestation in subclinically hypothyroid and hypothyroxinemic women and to determine optimal strategies for thyroid function screening in preconception and pregnancy. CONCLUSION The diagnosis and management of hypothyroidism in the peripregnancy period present specific challenges. In making management decisions, it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits of treatments not just for the mother but also for the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth N Pearce
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, Boston University School of Medicine, 720 Harrison Ave, Suite 8100, Boston, MA, 02118.
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Abstract
Importance Thyroid disorders represent one of the most frequent complications of pregnancy associated with adverse obstetric, fetal, and neonatal outcomes, especially in case of delayed diagnosis and suboptimal management. Objective The aim of this study was to review and compare the recommendations of the most recently published guidelines on the diagnosis and management of these common conditions. Evidence Acquisition A descriptive review of guidelines from the Endocrine Society, the European Thyroid Association, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Thyroid Association, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on thyroid disease in pregnancy was carried out. Results There is an overall consensus regarding the diagnosis of overt and subclinical hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in pregnancy using the pregnancy-specific reference ranges and the definition of postpartum thyroiditis. The reviewed guidelines unanimously discourage universal screening for thyroid function abnormalities before and during pregnancy and support targeted screening of high-risk patients by measuring serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. Moreover, they all highlight the need of treating overt hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, not only during pregnancy, but also before conception, suggesting similar management policies and treatment targets. There is also agreement regarding the management of gestational transient hyperthyroidism with hyperemesis gravidarum, suspected fetal thyrotoxicosis, postpartum thyroiditis, and thyroid malignancy. Scanning or treating with radioactive iodine is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. On the other hand, there is controversy on the management of subclinical thyroid disease, thyroid function surveillance protocols, and iodine nutrition recommendations. Of note, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists makes some specific recommendations on the treatment of thyroid storm and thyrotoxic heart failure in pregnant women, whereas the American Thyroid Association makes a special reference to the management of women with thyroid cancer. Conclusions As the disorders of the thyroid gland affect a significant proportion of pregnant women, it is of paramount importance to develop uniform international evidence-based protocols for their accurate diagnosis and optimal management, in order to safely guide clinical practice and eventually improve perinatal outcomes.
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Gao X, Wang X, Han Y, Wang H, Li J, Hou Y, Yang Y, Wang H, Teng W, Shan Z. Postpartum Thyroid Dysfunction in Women With Known and Newly Diagnosed Hypothyroidism in Early Pregnancy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:746329. [PMID: 34899598 PMCID: PMC8662309 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.746329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypothyroidism in the first trimester of pregnancy (T1) has great adverse effects on mothers and foetuses. However, few studies have investigated the influence on postpartum thyroid dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate their long-term effect on postpartum thyroid function within one year after delivery. Methods In total, 151 women were recruited from 1496 participants and were classified as newly diagnosed subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in T1 (ND-SCH, n=50), previously known SCH before pregnancy (PK-SCH, n=51) and previously known overt hypothyroidism (PK-OH, n=50). Their thyroid functions were dynamically monitored from pre-conception to one-year postpartum. Results During pregnancy, the first thyroid functions' test time in T1 were 5-8 gestational weeks. After delivery, the prevalence of postpartum thyroiditis (PPT) was comparable in women with previously known and newly diagnosed hypothyroidism [ND-SCH 62.0% vs PK-SCH 64.7% vs PK-OH 64.0%, P=0.96]. For the ND-SCH group, PPT was significantly related with thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) >4.0 mU/L occurring at <8 gestational weeks [OR=8.06, 95% CI, 2.08-31.29] and TSH levels outside 1.0-2.5 mU/L near childbirth [OR=3.73, 95% CI, 1.04-13.41]. For patients with known hypothyroidism before pregnancy (PK-SCH and PK-OH), TSH>2.5 mU/L in T1 [OR=3.55, 95% CI, 1.43-8.81] and TPOAb≥300 μIU/mL [OR=6.58, 95% CI, 2.05-21.12] were associated with PPT. Regardless of whether SCH was diagnosed before pregnancy or in T1, the levothyroxine (LT4) treatment was discontinued at delivery. More than 50% of the patients had to face the hypothyroidism phase of postpartum and restarted LT4 treatment in the first-year follow-up. The logistic regression analysis revealed that TSH elevation occurring at <8 gestational weeks [OR=2.48, 95% CI, 1.09-5.6], TSH levels outside 1.0-2.5 mU/L near childbirth [OR=3.42, 95% CI, 1.45-8.05], and TPOAb≥300 μIU/mL [OR=6.59, 95% CI, 1.79-24.30] were the risk factors. Conclusion TSH elevation at <8 gestational weeks was associated with PPT after delivery in women with known and newly diagnosed hypothyroidism. Especially for SCH patients who stopped LT4 treatment at delivery, unsatisfactory TSH level at <8 gestational weeks and near childbirth, TPOAb≥300 μIU/mL were the risk factors for LT4 retreatment in one-year postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhongyan Shan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Li N, Yang J, Chen X, Huang J, Lai M, Fang F, Gu L, Wang YF, Peng YD. Postpartum Follow-Up of Patients with Subclinical Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy. Thyroid 2020; 30:1566-1573. [PMID: 32375594 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in pregnancy is associated with adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes. However, few studies have investigated the evolution of postpartum thyroid function in these women. This study aimed to determine the postpartum outcomes of SCH during pregnancy and the clinical and biochemical factors related to the evolution of long-term hypothyroidism. Methods: A total of 393 women diagnosed with SCH during pregnancy (defined as thyrotropin [TSH] >4.0 μIU/mL with normal free thyroxine levels according to the 2017 American Thyroid Association guidelines) were prospectively followed up after delivery. Among them, 216 underwent long-term follow-up [median (interquartile range) follow-up time: 11 (7-19) months] postpartum. The clinical and biochemical characteristics of the women with long-term postpartum hypothyroidism and euthyroidism were compared. Linear mixed model (LMM) was used to explore the risk factors for longitudinal changes of TSH, and logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the independent predictors of long-term postpartum hypothyroidism. Results: The probability of long-term hypothyroidism after delivery in SCH during pregnancy was 38.9%. Among the subjects with normal thyroid function 6-week postpartum, 28.2% developed hypothyroidism during long-term follow-up. The LMM showed that gestational age at the time of SCH diagnosis (estimate: -0.018, p = 0.004) and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) (estimate: 0.001, p = 0.020) were significantly associated with longitudinal changes of TSH. The logistic regression model showed that TPOAb positive both during pregnancy and six-week postpartum was a risk factor for long-term hypothyroidism after delivery (odds ratio = 4.686 [95% confidence interval 1.242 to 17.680], p = 0.023). Conclusions: More than one-third of patients with SCH during pregnancy had persistent hypothyroidism after delivery. We recommend that patients with TPOAb positive both during pregnancy and six-week postpartum undergo close follow-up to detect persistent hypothyroidism, especially before the next pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaying Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Changzhou 7th People's Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyu Lai
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Gu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Fan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-de Peng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Wilson HA, Creighton C, Scharfman H, Choleris E, MacLusky NJ. Endocrine Insights into the Pathophysiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuroscientist 2020; 27:650-667. [PMID: 32912048 DOI: 10.1177/1073858420952046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders that affects males more frequently than females. Numerous genetic and environmental risk factors have been suggested to contribute to the development of ASD. However, no one factor can adequately explain either the frequency of the disorder or the male bias in its prevalence. Gonadal, thyroid, and glucocorticoid hormones all contribute to normal development of the brain, hence perturbations in either their patterns of secretion or their actions may constitute risk factors for ASD. Environmental factors may contribute to ASD etiology by influencing the development of neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems during early life. Emerging evidence suggests that the placenta may be particularly important as a mediator of the actions of environmental and endocrine risk factors on the developing brain, with the male being particularly sensitive to these effects. Understanding how various risk factors integrate to influence neural development may facilitate a clearer understanding of the etiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley A Wilson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolyn Creighton
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helen Scharfman
- Departments of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Neuroscience & Physiology, and Psychiatry, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.,Center for Dementia Research, The Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, USA
| | - Elena Choleris
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neil J MacLusky
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Postpartum Follow-Up of Women Who Developed Subclinical Hypothyroidism during Pregnancy. Med Sci (Basel) 2020; 8:medsci8030029. [PMID: 32756301 PMCID: PMC7564580 DOI: 10.3390/medsci8030029] [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: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is inconsistency in the literature regarding the management of women diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) during pregnancy in the postpartum period. The purpose of our study was to assess the need for continuation of levothyroxine (LT4) treatment after delivery. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 114 women with new-onset SCH during pregnancy and at 1-year follow-up postpartum. Criteria for continuation of LT4 after delivery were breastfeeding, thyrotropin (TSH) levels at diagnosis >5 mIU/L, positive antithyroid antibodies and LT4 dose before delivery >50 μg/day. On treatment initiation, mean TSH ± SD was 5.24 ± 2.55 mIU/L. One year after delivery, most patients (86/114) were still on LT4. This was related to TSH levels at the initiation of treatment in gestation (p = 0.004) and inversely related to primiparity (p = 0.019). In the group of patients who stopped LT4 postpartum, treatment was reinstated in 11 out of 39 (28.2%) due to SCH relapse (mean TSH ± SD = 9.09 ± 5.81 mIU/L). Most women in our study continued treatment after delivery, and a considerable number of women who had discontinued LT4 restarted treatment postpartum. These results stress the need to reassess thyroid function at 6 to 12 months postpartum.
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López-Muñoz E, Mateos-Sánchez L, Mejía-Terrazas GE, Bedwell-Cordero SE. Hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia in pregnancy, from physiology to the clinic. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 58:757-763. [PMID: 31759523 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Many changes occur in the physiology of the maternal thyroid gland to maintain an adequate level of thyroid hormones (THs) at each stage of gestation during normal pregnancy, however, some factors can produce low levels of these hormones, which can alter the onset and progression of pregnancy. Deficiency of THs can be moderate or severe, and classified as overt or clinical hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, and isolated hypothyroxinemia. Overt hypothyroidism has been reported in 0.3-1.9% and subclinical hypothyroidism in approximately 1.5-5% of pregnancies. With respect to isolated hypothyroxinemia, the frequency has been reported in approximately 1.3% of pregnant women, however it can be as high as 25.4%. Worldwide, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, however, in iodine-sufficient countries like the United States, the most common cause is autoimmune thyroiditis or Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The diagnosis and timely treatment of deficiency of THs (before or during the first weeks of gestation) can significantly reduce some of the related adverse effects, such as recurrent pregnancy loss, preterm delivery, gestational hypertension, and alterations in the offspring. However, so far there is no consensus on the reference levels of thyroid hormones during pregnancy to establish the diagnosis and there is no consensus on universal screening of women during first trimester of pregnancy to identify thyroid dysfunction, to give treatment and to reduce adverse perinatal events, so it is necessary to carry out specific studies for each population that provide information about it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice López-Muñoz
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Medicina Reproductiva, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Gineco Obstetricia No. 4, Luis Castelazo Ayala, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Río Magdalena 289, 6° Piso, Laboratorio K, Colonia Tizapan San Ángel, Alcaldía Álvaro Obregón, C.P. 01090, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Leovigildo Mateos-Sánchez
- Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales, UMAE Hospital de Gineco Obstetricia No. 4, Luis Castelazo Ayala, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Río Magdalena 289, 6° Piso, Laboratorio K, Colonia Tizapan San Ángel, Alcaldía Álvaro Obregón, C.P. 01090, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Enrique Mejía-Terrazas
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Medicina Reproductiva, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Gineco Obstetricia No. 4, Luis Castelazo Ayala, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Río Magdalena 289, 6° Piso, Laboratorio K, Colonia Tizapan San Ángel, Alcaldía Álvaro Obregón, C.P. 01090, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Sharon Esperanza Bedwell-Cordero
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Medicina Reproductiva, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Gineco Obstetricia No. 4, Luis Castelazo Ayala, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Río Magdalena 289, 6° Piso, Laboratorio K, Colonia Tizapan San Ángel, Alcaldía Álvaro Obregón, C.P. 01090, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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13
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Xie J, Jiang L, Sadhukhan A, Yang S, Yao Q, Zhou P, Rao J, Jin M. Effect of antithyroid antibodies on women with recurrent miscarriage: A meta-analysis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 83:e13238. [PMID: 32198952 PMCID: PMC7317526 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Problem The effect of thyroid autoimmunity (TAI) on the prevalence of recurrent miscarriage (RM) is highly debatable. No meta‐analysis has been published in the past decade to investigate the impact of TAI on women with RM. Method of Study Systemic literature search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. English language literatures published between 1993 and 2019 were selected. We assessed the relationship between the prevalence of RM and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO‐Ab) or antithyroid antibodies (ATA) and evaluated the thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) level in TPO‐Ab‐positive women with RM. We also observed the treatment effect with levothyroxine (LT4) for RM. Review Manager 5.3 software was used to obtain the pooled odds ratios (OR). Results Analysis of 22 eligible studies revealed significant association between TPO‐Ab and the prevalence of RM (OR = 1.85; 95% CI, 1.38 to 2.49; P < .001)(n ≥ 3), (OR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.13 to 2.92; P = .01) (n ≥ 3). Women with ATA + had higher risk of RM (OR = 2.36; 95% CI, 1.71 to 3.25; P < .00001)(n ≥ 3), (OR = 2.34; 95% CI, 1.70 to 3.22; P < .00001)(n ≥ 2). RM women with TPO‐Ab had higher TSH level when compared with those negative for TPO‐Ab (random‐effect SMD = 0.60; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.90; P < .0001). We also found beneficial effects of LT4 supplementation on the outcome of live birth rate (LBR) among pregnant women with TPO‐Ab (OR = 3.04; 95% CI, 0.69 to 13.36; P = .14). Conclusion The presence of serum antithyroid antibodies does harms to women and can even lead to recurrent miscarriage; LT4 treatment may have beneficial to RM women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilai Xie
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lihong Jiang
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Taizhou Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Annapurna Sadhukhan
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Songqing Yang
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiuping Yao
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinpeng Rao
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min Jin
- Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Doherty BT, Kosarek N, Hoofnagle AN, Xu Y, Zoeller RT, Yolton K, Chen A, Lanphear BP, Braun JM, Romano ME. Maternal, cord, and three-year-old child serum thyroid hormone concentrations in the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment study. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2020; 92:366-372. [PMID: 31901217 PMCID: PMC7251780 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14151] [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: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Maternal thyroid function during pregnancy may influence offspring thyroid function, though relations between maternal and child thyroid function are incompletely understood. We sought to characterize relations between maternal, cord and child thyroid hormone concentrations in a population of mother-child pairs with largely normal thyroid function. METHODS In a prospective birth cohort, we measured thyroid hormone concentrations in 203 mothers at 16 gestational weeks, 273 newborns and 159 children at 3 years among participants in the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment (HOME) Study. We used multivariable linear regression to estimate associations of maternal thyroid hormones during pregnancy with cord serum thyroid hormones and also estimated associations of maternal and cord thyroid hormones with child thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). RESULTS Each doubling of maternal TSH was associated with a 16.4% increase of newborn TSH (95% CI: 3.9%, 30.5%), and each doubling of newborn TSH concentrations was associated with a 10.4% increase in child TSH concentrations at 3 years (95% CI: 0.1%, 21.7%). An interquartile range increase in cord FT4 concentrations was associated with an 11.7% decrease in child TSH concentrations at 3 years (95% CI: -20.2%, -2.3%). CONCLUSIONS We observed relationships between maternal, newborn and child thyroid hormone concentrations in the HOME Study. Our study contributes to understandings of interindividual variability in thyroid function among mother-child pairs, which may inform future efforts to identify risk factors for thyroid disorders or thyroid-related health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett T Doherty
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Noelle Kosarek
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Andy N Hoofnagle
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Yingying Xu
- Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - R Thomas Zoeller
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Child and Family Research Institute, BC Children's and Women's Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Megan E Romano
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
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15
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Abstract
Hypothyroidism is the most frequent pregnancy-related thyroid dysfunction, including overt and subclinical hypothyroidism. Studies show that even mild hypothyroidism may eventuate in adverse gestational outcomes and intellectual impairment of offspring. Women with overt hypothyroidism (OH) must be treated by levothyroxine (LT4) pre- and during pregnancy, however, it is controversial that when and how to initiate LT4 therapy and further optimize dosing so that pregnant women and their offspring may truly benefit. In the review we will analyze the changes in thyroid hormone requirements in pregnant women, the timing of LT4 treatment and adjustment of LT4 dose according to etiology in patients with hypothyroidism during pregnancy, and adjustment of LT4 after delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyan Shan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrine Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, China Medical University, 110001, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weiping Teng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrine Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, China Medical University, 110001, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
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16
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Hamblin PS, Sheehan PM, Allan C, Houlihan CA, Lu ZX, Forehan SP, Topliss DJ, Gilfillan C, Krishnamurthy B, Renouf D, Sztal‐Mazer S, Varadarajan S. Subclinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy: the Melbourne public hospitals consensus. Intern Med J 2019; 49:994-1000. [DOI: 10.1111/imj.14210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter S. Hamblin
- Department of Endocrinology and DiabetesWestern Health, Sunshine Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine – Western PrecinctThe University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Penelope M. Sheehan
- Pregnancy Research CentreRoyal Women's Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyRoyal Women’s Hospital, University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Carolyn Allan
- Endocrine Services in PregnancyMonash Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Christine A. Houlihan
- Diabetes and Endocrine Clinic, Mercy Hospital for Women Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Austin Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Zhong X. Lu
- Department of Chemical PathologyMelbourne Pathology Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine, andMonash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Simon P. Forehan
- Department of Diabetes and EndocrinologyRoyal Melbourne Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Duncan J. Topliss
- Department of Endocrinology and DiabetesThe Alfred Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical SchoolMonash University, The Alfred Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Christopher Gilfillan
- Department of Endocrinology and DiabetesEastern Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine, Eastern Clinical SchoolMonash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Bala Krishnamurthy
- Department of EndocrinologyWerribee Mercy Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
- St Vincent’s Institute of Medical ResearchSt Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Debra Renouf
- Department of Endocrinology and DiabetesPeninsula Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Peninsula Clinical SchoolMonash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Shoshana Sztal‐Mazer
- Department of Endocrinology and DiabetesThe Alfred Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine, Central Clinical SchoolMonash University, The Alfred Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Suresh Varadarajan
- Department of Endocrinology and DiabetesNorthern Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
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17
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Dong AC, Stagnaro-Green A. Differences in Diagnostic Criteria Mask the True Prevalence of Thyroid Disease in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Thyroid 2019; 29:278-289. [PMID: 30444186 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2018.0475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reported prevalence of thyroid disease in pregnancy varies widely through the published literature. These discrepancies are due to differences in criteria for euthyroidism, nationality, iodine status, and gestational age at screening. As a result, currently, an accepted rate of prevalence does not exist for the various thyroid diseases in pregnancy. Understanding the true prevalence rates of these disorders has important implications for clinical management and the ongoing discussion regarding universal screening. The aims of this study were to assess (i) the true prevalence of thyroid disorders in pregnancy and (ii) the impact of diagnostic methodology on these rates. METHODS A systematic review was conducted of the existing literature, including the Pubmed database and references from relevant review articles. Sixty-three studies reporting prevalence of overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, isolated hypothyroxinemia, subclinical hyperthyroidism, and overt hyperthyroidism in pregnant women were included. Studies were further classified by thyrotropin (TSH) cutoff for diagnosis in hypothyroid disease and timing of screening for hyperthyroid disease. Meta-analysis yielded pooled prevalence rates, with subgroup analyses for TSH cutoff and timing of screening. Analysis of studies using the 97.5th percentile TSH cutoff was assessed to yield the most accurate prevalence rates for hypothyroidism. RESULTS Pooled prevalence rates for hypothyroidism calculated from studies using the 97.5th percentile as an upper limit for TSH were 0.50% for overt hypothyroidism, 3.47% for subclinical hypothyroidism, and 2.05% for isolated hypothyroxinemia. Pooled prevalence rates in the first and second trimesters for hyperthyroidism were 0.91% and 0.65%, respectively, for overt hyperthyroidism and 2.18% and 0.98%, respectively, for subclinical hyperthyroidism. CONCLUSION Population-based, trimester-specific TSH cutoffs for diagnosis of hypothyroid disease in pregnancy result in more accurate diagnosis and better estimates for prevalence of disease. Prevalence of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy varies depending on timing of screening. The prevalence rates reported in this study represent the best estimate to date of the true rates of thyroid disease in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Chen Dong
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alex Stagnaro-Green
- 2 Department of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Medical Education, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, Illinois
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18
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Okosieme OE, Khan I, Taylor PN. Preconception management of thyroid dysfunction. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2018; 89:269-279. [PMID: 29706030 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Uncorrected thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy has well-recognized deleterious effects on foetal and maternal health. The early gestation period is one of the critical foetal vulnerability during which maternal thyroid dysfunction may have lasting repercussions. Accordingly, a pragmatic preconception strategy is key for ensuring optimal thyroid disease outcomes in pregnancy. Preconception planning in women with hypothyroidism should pre-empt and mirror the adaptive changes in the thyroid gland by careful levothyroxine dose adjustments to ensure adequate foetal thyroid hormone delivery in pregnancy. In hyperthyroidism, the goal of preconception therapy is to control hyperthyroidism while curtailing the unwanted side effects of foetal and maternal exposure to antithyroid drugs. Thus, pregnancy should be deferred until a stable euthyroid state is achieved, and definitive therapy with radioiodine or surgery should be considered in women with Graves' disease planning future pregnancy. Women with active disease who are imminently trying to conceive should be switched to propylthiouracil either preconception or at conception in order to minimize the risk of birth defects from carbimazole or methimazole exposure. Optimal strategies for women with borderline states of thyroid dysfunction namely subclinical hypothyroidism, isolated hypothyroxinaemia and thyroid autoimmunity remain uncertain due to the dearth of controlled interventional trials. Future trial designs should aspire to recruit and initiate therapy before conception or as early as possible in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyebuchi E Okosieme
- Thyroid Research Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
- Endocrine and Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
| | - Ishrat Khan
- Thyroid Research Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Peter N Taylor
- Thyroid Research Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
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19
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Romano ME, Eliot MN, Zoeller RT, Hoofnagle AN, Calafat AM, Karagas MR, Yolton K, Chen A, Lanphear BP, Braun JM. Maternal urinary phthalate metabolites during pregnancy and thyroid hormone concentrations in maternal and cord sera: The HOME Study. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2018; 221:623-631. [PMID: 29606598 PMCID: PMC5972051 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2018.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalates, endocrine-disrupting chemicals that are commonly found in consumer products, may adversely affect thyroid hormones, but findings from prior epidemiologic studies are inconsistent. OBJECTIVES In a prospective cohort study, we investigated whether maternal urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and phthalate mixtures measured during pregnancy were associated with thyroid hormones among pregnant women and newborns. METHODS We measured nine phthalate metabolites [monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate, mono-isobutyl phthalate, monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), and four monoesthers of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate] in urine collected at approximately 16 and 26 weeks' gestation among women in the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment Study (2003-2006, Cincinnati, Ohio). Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free and total thyroxine and triiodothyronine were measured in maternal serum at 16 weeks' gestation (n = 202) and cord serum at delivery (n = 276). We used multivariable linear regression to assess associations between individual urinary phthalate metabolites and concentrations of maternal or cord serum thyroid hormones. We used weighted quantile sum regression (WQS) to create a phthalate index describing combined concentrations of phthalate metabolites and to investigate associations of the phthalate index with individual thyroid hormones. RESULTS With each 10-fold increase in 16-week maternal urinary MEP, maternal serum total thyroxine (TT4) decreased by 0.52 μg/dL (95% CI: -1.01, -0.03). For each 10-fold increase in average (16- and 26-week) maternal urinary MBzP, cord serum TSH decreased by 19% (95% CI: -33.1, -1.9). Among mothers, the phthalate index was inversely associated with maternal serum TT4 (WQS beta = -0.60; 95% CI: -1.01, -0.18). Among newborns, the phthalate index was inversely associated with both cord serum TSH (WQS beta = -0.11; 95% CI: -0.20, -0.03) and TT4 (WQS beta = -0.53; 95% CI: -0.90, -0.16). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that co-exposure to multiple phthalates was inversely associated with certain thyroid hormones (TT4 in pregnant women and newborns, and TSH in newborns) in this birth cohort. These findings highlight the need to study chemical mixtures in environmental epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Romano
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Melissa N Eliot
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - R Thomas Zoeller
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Andrew N Hoofnagle
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Margaret R Karagas
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Child and Family Research Institute, BC Children's and Women's Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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20
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Taylor PN, Zouras S, Min T, Nagarahaj K, Lazarus JH, Okosieme O. Thyroid Screening in Early Pregnancy: Pros and Cons. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:626. [PMID: 30410467 PMCID: PMC6209822 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Universal thyroid screening in pregnancy is a key debate in thyroidology and obstetrics. It is well-established that thyroid hormones are essential for maintaining pregnancy and optimal fetal development. Thyroid dysfunction is common in women of child-bearing age and also results in substantial adverse obstetric and child neurodevelopmental outcomes. Furthermore, thyroid dysfunction is readily diagnosed with reliable blood tests and easily corrected with inexpensive and available treatments. Screening only high-risk patients appears to miss the majority of cases and economic models show that compared to high-risk screening, universal screening is cost effective even if only overt hypothyroidism was assumed to have adverse obstetric effects. As a result, several countries now implement universal screening. Opponents of universal thyroid screening argue that asymptomatic borderline thyroid abnormalities such as subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia form the bulk of cases of thyroid dysfunction seen in pregnancy and that there is a lack of high quality evidence to support their screening and correction. This review critically appraises the literature, examines the pros and cons of universal thyroid screening using criteria laid down by Wilson and Jungner. It also highlights the growing evidence for universal thyroid screening and indicates the key challenges and practicalities of implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N. Taylor
- Thyroid Research Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Peter N. Taylor
| | - Stamatios Zouras
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, United Kingdom
| | - Thinzar Min
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Kalyani Nagarahaj
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - John H. Lazarus
- Thyroid Research Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Onyebuchi Okosieme
- Thyroid Research Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, United Kingdom
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21
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Neelaveni K, Kumar KVSH, Sahay R, Ramesh J. Postpartum Follow-up in Women Diagnosed with Subclinical Hypothyroidism during Pregnancy. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2017; 21:699-702. [PMID: 28989877 PMCID: PMC5628539 DOI: 10.4103/ijem.ijem_452_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management guidelines about the thyroid disease in pregnancy are silent about the postpartum course of new onset subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH). Hence, we analyzed the 2 years outcome of SCH diagnosed during pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted this retrospective study using the medical records of patients with new onset SCH during pregnancy between 2010 and 2013 (n = 718). Patients who stopped their levothyroxine after delivery with a 2-year follow-up record were included. We excluded patients with known thyroid disorders and continuous use of drugs that affect the thyroid results. The patients were divided into two groups (Group 1 - euthyroid and Group 2 - hypothyroid) based on the final outcome after 2 years. The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods and a P < 0.05 was considered statically significant. RESULTS A total of 559 (77.8%) women stopped levothyroxine after delivery, and the final follow-up data were available for 467 patients only. At the end of 2 years, 384 (82.2%) remained euthyroid, and the remaining 83 (17.8%) developed hypothyroidism. SCH and overt hypothyroidism were seen in 22 and 61 patients, respectively. Group 2 patients had higher mean age (25.5 vs. 23.6 years), goiter (51 vs. 2%), initial thyroid stimulating hormone (7.9 vs. 5.1 μIU/mL), and thyroid antibody positivity (76 vs. 13%) (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION The majority of patients with SCH during pregnancy remain euthyroid after delivery. Advanced age, goiter, positive family history, and thyroid autoimmunity increase the future risk of hypothyroidism in patients with SCH diagnosed during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Neelaveni
- Department of Endocrinology, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | | | - Rakesh Sahay
- Department of Endocrinology, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Jayanthy Ramesh
- Department of Endocrinology, Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
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22
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Carty DM, Doogan F, Welsh P, Dominiczak AF, Delles C. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) ≥2.5mU/l in early pregnancy: Prevalence and subsequent outcomes. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2017; 210:366-369. [PMID: 28153744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There remains controversy over how women with abnormal thyroid function tests in pregnancy should be classified. In this study we assessed the proportion of women with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)≥2.5mU/l in a large obstetric cohort, and examined how many have gone on to develop thyroid disease in the years since their pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN 4643 women were recruited and samples taken in early pregnancy between 2007 and 2010. Thyroid function tests were analysed in 2014; in women with raised TSH computerised health records and prescription databases were used to identify thyroid disease detected since pregnancy. RESULTS 58 women (1.5%) had a TSH over 5mU/l and 396 women (10.3%) had TSH between 2.5 and 5mU/l. Women with TSH>5mU/l delivered infants of lower birthweight than those with TSH<2.5mU/l; there were no other differences in obstetric outcomes between the groups. Of those who have had thyroid tests since their pregnancy, 78% of those with TSH>5mU/l and 19% of those with TSH between 2.5 and 5mU/l have gone on to be diagnosed with thyroid disease. CONCLUSIONS Using a TSH cut-off of 2.5mU/l in keeping with European and US guidelines means that over 12% of women in this cohort would be classified as having subclinical hypothyroidism. Treatment and monitoring of these women would have major implications for planning of obstetric services.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Carty
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Clinical Pharmacology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK; Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Flora Doogan
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Clinical Pharmacology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul Welsh
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Anna F Dominiczak
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Christian Delles
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Springer D, Jiskra J, Limanova Z, Zima T, Potlukova E. Thyroid in pregnancy: From physiology to screening. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2017; 54:102-116. [PMID: 28102101 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2016.1269309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones are crucial for the growth and maturation of many target tissues, especially the brain and skeleton. During critical periods in the first trimester of pregnancy, maternal thyroxine is essential for fetal development as it supplies thyroid hormone-dependent tissues. The ontogeny of mature thyroid function involves organogenesis, and maturation of the hypothalamus, pituitary and the thyroid gland; and it is almost complete by the 12th-14th gestational week. In case of maternal hypothyroidism, substitution with levothyroxine must be started in early pregnancy. After the 14th gestational week, fetal brain development may already be irreversibly affected by lack of thyroid hormones. The prevalence of manifest hypothyroidism in pregnancy is about 0.3-0.5%. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism varies between 4 and 17%, strongly depending on the definition of the upper TSH cutoff limit. Hyperthyroidism occurs in 0.1-1% of all pregnancies. Positivity for antibodies against thyroid peroxidase (TPOAb) is common in women of childbearing age with an incidence rate of 5.1-12.4%. TPOAb-positivity may be regarded as a manifestation of a general autoimmune state which may alter the fertilization and implantation processes or cause early missed abortions. Women positive for TPOAb are at a significant risk of developing hypothyroidism during pregnancy and postpartum. Laboratory diagnosis of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy is based upon serum TSH concentration. TSH in pregnancy is physiologically lower than the non-pregnant population. Results of multiple international studies point toward creation of trimester-specific reference intervals for TSH in pregnancy. Screening for hypothyroidism in pregnancy is controversial and its implementation varies from country to country. Currently, the case-finding approach of screening high-risk women is preferred in most countries to universal screening. However, numerous studies have shown that one-third to one-half of women with thyroid disorders escape the case-finding approach. Moreover, the universal screening has been shown to be more cost-effective. Screening for thyroid disorders in pregnancy should include assessment of both TSH and TPOAb, regardless of the screening approach. This review summarizes the current knowledge on physiology of thyroid hormones in pregnancy, causes of maternal thyroid dysfunction and its effects on pregnancy course and fetal development. We discuss the question of case-finding versus universal screening strategies and we display an overview of the analytical methods and their reference intervals in the assessment of thyroid function and thyroid autoimmunity in pregnancy. Finally, we present our results supporting the implementation of universal screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drahomira Springer
- a Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital , Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Jan Jiskra
- b 3rd Department of Medicine - Clinical Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism , 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital , Prague , Czech Republic , and
| | - Zdenka Limanova
- b 3rd Department of Medicine - Clinical Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism , 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital , Prague , Czech Republic , and
| | - Tomas Zima
- a Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital , Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Eliska Potlukova
- c Division of Internal Medicine , University Hospital Basel , Basel , Switzerland
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24
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Khan I, Okosieme OE, Lazarus JH. Current challenges in the pharmacological management of thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2016; 10:97-109. [PMID: 27781488 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2017.1253471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thyroid dysfunction is common in pregnancy and has adverse fetal and maternal health consequences. A number of challenges in the management of gestational thyroid dysfunction remain unresolved including uncertainties in optimal thresholds for correction of hypothyroidism and strategies for pharmacological management of hyperthyroidism. Areas covered: We addressed key challenges and areas of uncertainty in the management of thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy. Expert commentary: Gestational thyroid hormone reference intervals vary according to population ethnicity, iodine nutrition, and assay method and each population should derive trimester specific reference intervals for use in pregnancy. Subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinaemia are common in pregnancy but there is no consensus on the benefits of correcting these conditions. Although observational studies show potential benefits of levothyroxine on child neurocognitive function these benefits are have not been supported by two controlled trials. Carbimazole should be avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy due to risk of congenital anomalies but recent studies would suggest that this risk is present to a lesser magnitude with propylthiouracil. Current international guidelines recommend the use of propylthiouracil in the first trimester and switching to carbimazole for the remainder of pregnancy but the benefits and practicalities of this approach is unproven.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Khan
- a Thyroid Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine , Cardiff University , Cardiff , CF14 4XN , UK
| | - O E Okosieme
- a Thyroid Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine , Cardiff University , Cardiff , CF14 4XN , UK.,b Endocrine and Diabetes Department , Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board , Merthyr Tydfil , UK
| | - J H Lazarus
- a Thyroid Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine , Cardiff University , Cardiff , CF14 4XN , UK
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Zhang L, Zhang Z, Ye H, Zhu X, Li Y. Association between the clinical classification of hypothyroidism and reduced TSH in LT4 supplemental replacement treatment for pregnancy in China. Gynecol Endocrinol 2016; 32:374-8. [PMID: 26651855 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2015.1121228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The study was aimed to evaluate the effects of levothyroxine (LT4) supplemental replacement treatment for pregnancy and analyze the associations between the clinical classification of hypothyroidism and reduced thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in LT4 therapy. Totally, 195 pregnant women with hypothyroidism receiving routine prenatal care were enrolled. They were categorized into three groups: overt hypothyroidism (OH), subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) with negative thyroperoxidase antibody (TPOAb), and SCH with positive TPOAb. The association between the clinical classification and reduced TSH in LT4 supplemental replacement treatment was assessed. The results indicated that reduced TSH was significantly different among the groups according to the clinical classifications (p = 0.043). The result was also significantly different between patients with OH and patients with SCH and negative TPOAb (p = 0.036). Similar result was reported for the comparison between patients with OH and patients with SCH and positive TPOAb (p = 0.016). Multiple variable analyses showed that LT4 supplementation, gestational age and the variable of clinical classifications were associated with reduced TSH independently. Our data suggested that the therapeutic effect of substitutive treatment with LT4 was significantly associated with different clinical classifications of hypothyroidism in pregnancy and the treatment should begin as soon as possible after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyu Zhang
- a Huashan Hospital , Shanghai , China
| | | | | | | | - Yiming Li
- a Huashan Hospital , Shanghai , China
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26
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE In the last 3 years, we have witnessed the publication of multiple but conflicting guidelines on the management of hypothyroidism during pregnancy. Hypothyroidism is one of the most common endocrinopathies in reproductive-age and pregnant women. Given the prevalence of thyroid disease, it is highly likely that obstetricians will encounter and provide care for pregnant women with thyroid disease. Therefore, a review of current guidelines and management options is clinically relevant. OBJECTIVES Our goals are to review the changes in thyroid function during pregnancy, the options for testing for thyroid disease, the different categories of thyroid dysfunction and surveillance strategies among subspecialty societies, and the obstetric hazards associated with thyroid dysfunction and review the evidence for benefit of treatment options for thyroid disease. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION We reviewed key subspecialty guidelines, as well as current and ongoing studies focused on the treatment of hypothyroidism during pregnancy. RESULTS There are significant differences in the identification and management of thyroid disease during pregnancy among subspecialists. We present our recommendations based on the available evidence. RELEVANCE Evidence exists that obstetricians struggle with the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism. According to recent surveys, the management of hypothyroidism during pregnancy is the number 1 endocrine topic of interest for obstetricians. A synopsis of recently published subspecialty guidelines is timely. CONCLUSIONS Recent, evidence-based findings indicate that obstetricians should consider modifying their approach to the identification and treatment of thyroid disease during pregnancy.
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27
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Romano ME, Webster GM, Vuong AM, Thomas Zoeller R, Chen A, Hoofnagle AN, Calafat AM, Karagas MR, Yolton K, Lanphear BP, Braun JM. Gestational urinary bisphenol A and maternal and newborn thyroid hormone concentrations: the HOME Study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 138:453-60. [PMID: 25794847 PMCID: PMC4403004 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/08/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor used in consumer products, may perturb thyroid function. Prenatal BPA exposure may have sex-specific effects on thyroid hormones (THs). Our objectives were to investigate whether maternal urinary BPA concentrations during pregnancy were associated with THs in maternal or cord serum, and whether these associations differed by newborn sex or maternal iodine status. We measured urinary BPA concentrations at 16 and 26 weeks gestation among pregnant women in the HOME Study (2003-2006, Cincinnati, Ohio). Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free and total thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) were measured in maternal serum at 16 weeks (n=181) and cord serum at delivery (n=249). Associations between BPA concentrations and maternal or cord serum TH levels were estimated by multivariable linear regression. Mean maternal urinary BPA was not associated with cord THs in all newborns, but a 10-fold increase in mean BPA was associated with lower cord TSH in girls (percent change=-36.0%; 95% confidence interval (CI): -58.4, -1.7%), but not boys (7.8%; 95% CI: -28.5, 62.7%; p-for-effect modification=0.09). We observed no significant associations between 16-week BPA and THs in maternal or cord serum, but 26-week maternal BPA was inversely associated with TSH in girls (-42.9%; 95% CI: -59.9, -18.5%), but not boys (7.6%; 95% CI: -17.3, 40.2%; p-for-effect modification=0.005) at birth. The inverse BPA-TSH relation among girls was stronger, but less precise, among iodine deficient versus sufficient mothers. Prenatal BPA exposure may reduce TSH among newborn girls, particularly when exposure occurs later in gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Romano
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Glenys M Webster
- Child and Family Research Institute, BC Children's and Women's Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ann M Vuong
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - R Thomas Zoeller
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Andrew N Hoofnagle
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Margaret R Karagas
- Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Center and Department of Community and Family Medicine, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Child and Family Research Institute, BC Children's and Women's Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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28
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Chan S, Boelaert K. Optimal management of hypothyroidism, hypothyroxinaemia and euthyroid TPO antibody positivity preconception and in pregnancy. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 82:313-26. [PMID: 25200555 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Normal physiological changes of pregnancy warrant the need to employ gestation specific reference ranges for the interpretation of thyroid function tests. Thyroid hormones play crucial roles in foetal growth and neurodevelopment which are dependent on adequate supply of maternal thyroid hormones from early gestation onwards. The prevention of significant adverse obstetric and neurodevelopmental outcomes from hypothyroidism requires a strategy of empirical levothyroxine dose increases and predictive dose adjustments in pregnancy combined with regular thyroid function testing, starting before pregnancy and until the postpartum period. Subclinical hypothyroidism has been associated with an increased risk of pregnancy loss and neurocognitive deficits in children, especially when diagnosed before or during early pregnancy. Whilst trials of levothyroxine replacement for mild hypothyroidism in pregnancy have not indicated definite evidence of improvements in these outcomes, professional guidelines recommend treatment, especially if evidence of underlying thyroid autoimmunity is present. Studies of isolated hypothyroxinaemia in pregnancy have shown conflicting evidence with regards to adverse obstetric and neurodevelopmental outcomes and no causative relationships have been determined. Treatment of this condition in pregnancy may be considered in those with underlying thyroid autoimmunity. Whilst the evidence for a link between the presence of anti-TPO antibodies and increased risks of pregnancy loss and infertility is compelling, the results of ongoing randomized trials of levothyroxine in euthyroid women with underlying autoimmunity are currently awaited. Further studies to define the selection of women who require levothyroxine replacement and to determine the benefits of a predictive dose adjustment strategy are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiao Chan
- Centre for Women's & Children's Health, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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29
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Stagnaro-Green A. Postpartum Management of Women Begun on Levothyroxine during Pregnancy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:183. [PMID: 26648909 PMCID: PMC4663256 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the thyroid gland must produce 50% more thyroid hormone to maintain the euthyroid state. Women with decreased thyroid reserve preconception, most typically due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, may develop hypothyroidism during pregnancy. Data over the last 20 years have reported a strong association between subclinical hypothyroidism and adverse maternal/fetal events. As a result of this association, an increasing number of women are being screened for thyroid disease either preconception or at the first prenatal visit. Consequently, an ever increasing number of women are being initiated on levothyroxine for the first time during pregnancy. At present, there are very limited guidelines related to the management of the thyroid disease in these women postpartum. Based on an understanding of the physiology of the thyroid gland during pregnancy and postpartum, and the personal clinical experience of the author, recommendations for the postpartum management of women who were started on levothyroxine during pregnancy are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Stagnaro-Green
- University of Illinois Rockford College of Medicine, Rockford, IL, USA
- *Correspondence: Alex Stagnaro-Green,
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30
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Lazarus J, Brown RS, Daumerie C, Hubalewska-Dydejczyk A, Negro R, Vaidya B. 2014 European thyroid association guidelines for the management of subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy and in children. Eur Thyroid J 2014; 3:76-94. [PMID: 25114871 PMCID: PMC4109520 DOI: 10.1159/000362597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 394] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This guideline has been produced as the official statement of the European Thyroid Association guideline committee. Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in pregnancy is defined as a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level above the pregnancy-related reference range with a normal serum thyroxine concentration. Isolated hypothyroxinaemia (defined as a thyroxine level below the 2.5th centile of the pregnancy-related reference range with a normal TSH level) is also recognized in pregnancy. In the majority of SCH the cause is autoimmune thyroiditis but may also be due to iodine deficiency. The cause of isolated hypothyroxinaemia is usually not apparent, but iodine deficiency may be a factor. SCH and isolated hypothyroxinaemia are both associated with adverse obstetric outcomes. Levothyroxine therapy may ameliorate some of these with SCH but not in isolated hypothyroxinaemia. SCH and isolated hypothyroxinaemia are both associated with neuro-intellectual impairment of the child, but there is no evidence that maternal levothyroxine therapy improves this outcome. Targeted antenatal screening for thyroid function will miss a substantial percentage of women with thyroid dysfunction. In children SCH (serum TSH concentration >5.5-10 mU/l) normalizes in >70% and persists in the majority of the remaining patients over the subsequent 5 years, but rarely worsens. There is a lack of studies examining the impact of SCH on the neuropsychological development of children under the age of 3 years. In older children, the evidence for an association between SCH and impaired neuropsychological development is inconsistent. Good quality studies examining the effect of treatment of SCH in children are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Lazarus
- Thyroid Research Group, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Cardiff University, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, Exeter, UK
| | - Rosalind S. Brown
- Clinical Trials Research Division of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., USA
| | - Chantal Daumerie
- Endocrinologie, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Roberto Negro
- Division of Endocrinology, V. Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bijay Vaidya
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
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