Study of thyroid profile in relation to glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is an endocrine metabolic disorder that causes significant morbidity and mortality around the world. Thyroid gland dysfunction is a significant problem in diabetic patients. In diabetics, hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid abnormality. When compared to healthy people, diabetic patients have a higher incidence of thyroid abnormalities. Diabetes mellitus treatment can be complicated due to irregular thyroid activity. A total of 120 people were studied, with 60 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (Cases group) and 60 healthy people (Control group). Patients with and without strong diabetic control are represented in 60 cases. Both subjects had their fasting venous blood samples taken. In both the cases and control groups, fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, serum T3 (Triiodothyronine), serum T4 (Thyroxine), and serum TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone) were measured.The thyroid abnormality was significantly seen in diabetic patients when compared to healthy individuals. The abnormality was more significant in patients with poor glycemic control. When comparing cases to controls, mean serum TSH levels were significantly higher, whereas mean serum T3 and T4 levels were significantly lower. Thyroid hormone levels in type 2 diabetics are abnormal due to a change in the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis. This in turn produces significant metabolic disturbances. This is more significant in diabetics with poor glycemic control. Routine screening for thyroid function should be done in diabetics, which helps in preventing complications. This contributes to improved treatment by lowering morbidity and improving quality of life.