No abstract

It results from reduced secretion of either total thyroxine (T4) or triiodothyronine (T3). It leads to hypersecretion of pituitary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and so greater increase in serum TSH levels. Subclinical hypothyroidism can be defined as a high serum TSH concentration and normal serum total or free T4 and T3 concentrations associated with a few or no symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism. [1] It is referred to as a state of mild thyroid failure. [2] Subclinical hypothyroidism is more common in the elderly and is found twice in women as in men. [3] It is a more common disorder than overt hypothyroidism [4] and hence early diagnosis and treatment may prevent the onset of overt hypothyroidism along with its associated effects. Background: Hypothyroidism is a common problem that reduces the functional ability of life. Hypothyroidism is associated with altered lipid levels, which increases the cardiovascular risk. Objective: The objectives of this study were to study whether there is any correlation between serum lipid levels and hypothyroidism (subclinical and overt) in a rural population of Gujarat and to study whether there is any difference in lipid levels among menopausal and postmenopausal women. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Clinical Biochemistry department, P.S. Medical College, Karamsad, which consisted 100 hypothyroid patients (subclinical and overt) and 100 similar age-and sex-matched controls. Serum total thyroxine, triiodothyronine, thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, serum cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein levels were examined in subclinical and euthyroid patients. Results: In patient with subclinical hypothyroidism, we found elevated serum total cholesterol (217.95) and triglyceride (148.35) levels as compared to controls (P = 0.001) but statistically insignificant HDL level (51.45; P = 0.973). In patient with overt hypothyroidism, elevated serum total cholesterol (271.92) and triglyceride (166.31) were found as compared to control (P = 0.001), but HDL level (46.57; P = 0.134) was found to be decreased. Conclusion: There is association between subclinical and overt hypothyroidism with dyslipidemia. This might be a potential risk factor for coronary artery disease.

No abstract