Serum lipids in sub clinical hypothyroidism: A retrospective study

Abstract

Thyroid hormones are a potent regulator of metabolism, playing a crucial role in regulating energy expenditure and in key physiological mechanisms. Their prominent and well-known role is an increase in basal energy expenditure obtained by acting on carbohydrate, protein and lipid-metabolism. Hypothyroidism is relatively common and is associated with an unfavorable effect on lipid metabolism. Few studies reveal subclinical hypothyroidism to be a risk factor for increased incidence of lipid abnormalities and resulting in cardiovascular abnormalities. Hence study was taken up to find the association of serum lipids with subclinical hypothyroidism.This was a retrospective study conducted in the department of Biochemistry, Malla Reddy hospital. Biochemically identified 102 subjects of Subclinical hypothyroidism subjects between 15-50 years and evaluated for lipid profile were included in the study. In our study, the mean serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol expressed in mg/dl were 189.98±24.16, 166.48±17.4, 37.62±2.89 and 121.34±27.31mg/dl respectively. 41 subjects out of 102 had higher total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol with lesser HDL cholesterol from the acceptable limits.: We conclude that impaired lipid parameters are associated with subclinical hypothyroidism. Hence a regular screening for lipid profile should be considered in subclinical hypothyroidism for early diagnosis, prevention and management of cardiovascular complications.