THYROID DYSFUNCTION IN HIV INFECTED PATIENTS - A CROSS SECTIONAL PREVALENCE STUDY IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Thyroid dysfunction is becoming more common in HIV infected patients. However, there is no enough data to suggest routine thyroid monitoring for those who are asymptomatic. Therefore, this study was conducted in an effort to nd a solution to these problems. Methods: A cross sectional observational study was conducted on 50 adult HIV positive patients with no comorbidities. A detailed history taking and examination was done and necessary investigations were done to make diagnosis. FT3, FT4, TSH and CD4 were done in all the patients. Results: Overt Hypothyroidism was noted in 2%(1), subclinical hypothyroidism in 10% (6), isolated low FT4 noted in 2%(1) and sick euthyroidism in 22%(14) patients. FT3, FT4 levels found decreasing, as the stage of HIV advanced whereas TSH levels did not correlate with stage of infection. A direct correlation was found FT3 and CD4 counts and an inverse correlation between TSH and CD4 counts. TSH levels in patients on HAARTwere signicantly higher when compared to those not on HAART. Conclusion: Majotiy of HIV infected patients with thyroid dysfunction did not have any symptoms. Serum FT3 and FT4 were directly correlated with WHO clinical infection stage. As CD4 counts dropped, TSH level was rising. Subclinical hypothyroidism was prevalent among HAART patients. Due to short sample size, no association could be shown between opportunistic infections and thyroid dysfunction