Association between Thyroid Function indices and Thyroid Autoantibodies with Thyroid Ultrasonography Outcomes in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: Thyroid Ultrasonography (US) is recommended as a valuable tool for evaluating the status and function of the thyroid gland. The objective of this study was to compare and analyze the thyroid ultrasonography outcomes in children and adolescents who have normal thyroid function and thyroid antibodies.
 Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of 233 selected females aged 9 to 14 years old. Blood samples were obtained from the subjects and analyzed for thyroid hormones and thyroid autoantibodies. Additionally, a thyroid ultrasound was performed to provide an in-depth evaluation.
 Results: Of all the participants, 25% displayed hypoechogenicity. Individuals with reduced echogenicity had higher median levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab), and thyroglobulin antibody (Tg-Ab) compared to those with normal echogenicity. Moreover, those with hypoechogenicity had significantly higher thyroid volume (TVol), iodine status, and thyroglobulin levels than their counterparts with normal echogenicity. Hypoechogenicity was also significantly associated with higher levels of TPO-Ab, Tg-Ab, and TSH. Logistic regression analysis revealed that high TSH and TPO-Ab levels were associated with a higher risk of irregular echo patterns and thyroid autoantibodies.
 Conclusion: The results revealed that irregular thyroid patterns in the ultrasonography were useful for assessing thyroid structure and dysfunction. Moreover, elevated TPOAb, Tg-Ab, and TSH concentrations in the serum may indicate thyroid malfunction. Ultrasound can help to identify early thyroid dysfunction along with the standard thyroid assessment biomarkers.