Assessment of thyroid hormones status and some adipocytokines among Egyptian obese children

Abstract

Aim: Childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health problems facing the developed and increasingly, the developing world. In this study, we aimed to investigate the possible role of thyroid hormones and some adipokines in childhood obesity. Materials & methods: A total of 80 children were enrolled; 50 obese children and 30 non-obese of matched age and sex. Clinical, demographic characteristics and lipid profile levels were monitored. Plasma levels of thyroid hormones, leptin, IL-1α and TNF-α were measured in these subjects. Results: Dyslipidemia was evident in obese children relative to normal ones. Obese children exhibited a significant reduction in TSH and free- T4 levels. There was an increment in both leptin and IL-1α levels of obese children, however, their TNF-α level were significantly decreased. Conclusion: Alterations in thyroid hormones status, leptin, IL-1α and TNF-α are associated with obesity in Egyptian children.