Loss of Thyroid Hormones into Feces in Children on Regular Hemodialysis

Abstract

In 20 children on hemodialysis in vitro tests of thyroid function were made. Total T4, free T4, and total T3 were below the normal mean. The daily loss of T3 into feces was significantly higher in dialysis children than in healthy controls. The loss of T4 into feces was somewhat higher in dialysis children than in healthy controls. The amount of hormonal iodine loss into feces was calculated. It was significantly higher in children on hemodialysis than in controls. It is concluded that the loss of thyroid hormones into feces is the major cause of low serum thyroid hormone levels in children on hemodialysis.