Pattern of Thyroid Dysfunction in HIV Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Abnormalities of the endocrine glands functions are not uncommon in patients infected with HIV. Many studies have shown high prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in HIV patients. We have undertaken this study to know pattern of thyroid dysfunction in patients registered to our ART centre. Materials and methods: 100 HIV patients registered in ARTcentre of government medical college Jammu were enrolled for study. Besides baseline investigation FT3, FT4, TSH levels and CD4 counts were assessed in all patients. Results: 64% were women and 36% were men and mean age of our study group patients was 37.19±8.79. Out of 100 seropositive HIV patients, 69% were on antiretroviral therapy. Sick euthyroid syndrome was observed in 13% patients, subclinical hypothyroidism in 9% and 78% were euthyroid. Point prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in HIV infected patients was observed to be 22%. Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction is very common in patients infected with HIV and should be assessed in all patients, as thyroid hormones play important role not only in metabolism but also in uence immune system.