Elevated Thyroid-stimulating Hormone Research Articles

Associations between OGTT results during pregnancy and offspring TSH levels: a birth cohort study.

Limited evidence exists regarding the association between gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in newborns. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential risk of elevated TSH levels in infants exposed to maternal GDM, considering the type and number of abnormal values obtained from the 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A population-based, prospective birth cohort study was conducted in Wuhan, China. The study included women who underwent GDM screening using a 75-g OGTT. Neonatal TSH levels were measured via a time-resolved immunofluorescence assay. We estimated and stratified the overall risk (adjusted Risk Ratio [RR]) of elevated TSH levels (defined as TSH > 10 mIU/L or > 20 mIU/L) in offspring based on the type and number of abnormal OGTT values. Out of 15,236 eligible mother-offspring pairs, 11.5% (1,753) of mothers were diagnosed with GDM. Offspring born to women diagnosed with GDM demonstrated a statistically significant elevation in TSH levels when compared to offspring of non-GDM mothers, with a mean difference of 0.20 [95% CI: 0.04-0.36]. The incidence of elevated TSH levels (TSH > 10 mIU/L) in offspring of non-GDM women was 6.3 per 1,000 live births. Newborns exposed to mothers with three abnormal OGTT values displayed an almost five-fold increased risk of elevated TSH levels (adjusted RR 4.77 [95% CI 1.64-13.96]). Maternal fasting blood glucose was independently and positively correlated with neonatal TSH levels and elevated TSH status (TSH > 20 mIU/L). For newborns of women with GDM, personalized risk assessment for elevated TSH levels can be predicated on the type and number of abnormal OGTT values. Furthermore, fasting blood glucose emerges as a critical predictive marker for elevated neonatal TSH status.

Neutropenia Occurs More Often Under Carbimazole than Under Methimazole Treatment in Pediatric Graves' Disease Patients.

Background: Agranulocytosis is a rare antithyroid drug treatment (ATD) side effect seen in children suffering from Graves' disease (GD). Neutropenia is a recognized adverse event associated with ATD but has also been reported as pre-treatment neutropenia in GD. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study to analyze the longitudinal clinical and biochemical data of 161 pediatric patients with GD who received either methimazole (MMI) or carbimazole (CBZ) as ATD. The inclusion criteria were elevated free thyroxine (fT4 >25 pmol/L), suppressed thyrotropin (TSH <0.05 mlU/mL), and elevated thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TSHRAbs >2.5 IU/L). Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) was used to define neutropenia (ANC <1800/µL) and agranulocytosis (ANC <500/µL). Results: Nine of the 161 patients had neutropenia at diagnosis (ANC: 1348/µL ± 250) without further deterioration under ATD. In this subgroup, we found higher levels of free triiodothyronine (fT3: 31.45 pmol/L ± 3.99) at diagnosis in comparison with those who developed neutropenia (26.29 pmol/L ± 12.96; p = 0.07) and those without neutropenia before and during therapy (23.12 pmol/L ± 13.7; p = 0.003). Thirty-eight patients (23.6%) became neutropenic (ANC: 1479/µL ± 262) while receiving ATD. Neutropenia occurred after a mean of 551.8 (range: 10-1376) days, mostly without further deterioration. Two of these 38 patients developed agranulocytosis and underwent emergency thyroidectomy. The patients with neutropenia were significantly younger (p = 0.031). Neutropenia occurred significantly more often in patients receiving CBZ (50%; n = 20/40) than in those receiving MMI (16.5%; n = 18/110; p = 0.001). The minimum ANC was significantly lower in the CBZ (1971/µL ± 1008) than in the MMI group (2546 ± 959); p = 0.004. Conclusions: Neutropenia occurred significantly more often under CBZ than MMI. As this is potentially due to higher immunogenicity, we suggest that children with GD should be treated with MMI. Frequent measurements of ANC may be needed to detect severe agranulocytosis, although low pre-treatment ANC may not necessarily be a contraindication to ATD treatment. Young age may be potentially associated with an increased risk of reduced ANC. Further investigation is necessary to fully understand risk factors for neutropenia in children with GD.

The influence of gender-specific factors influencing severe anxiety in psychotic major depression: role of thyroid hormones and depression severity.

Psychotic major depression (PMD) is characterized by major depressive disorder (MDD) accompanied by delusions or hallucinations. While the prevalence of PMD and its association with anxiety have been studied, gender-specific differences and the role of thyroid hormones in PMD-related anxiety remain less explored. A total of 1718 first-episode and drug-naïve MDD patients was assessed for the presence of PMD and severe anxiety. Clinical assessments, including Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and Clinical Global Impressions-Severity (CGI-S) scale, were conducted to assess depression, anxiety, psychotic symptoms, and clinical severity, respectively. Blood samples were collected to measure thyroid function parameters. The prevalence of severe anxiety was higher in PMD patients compared to non-psychotic MDD patients (71.3% vs. 5.3%). No significant gender differences were observed in the prevalence of severe anxiety among PMD patients. However, elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and increased depression severity (HAMD scores) were identified as independent risk factors for severe anxiety in female PMD patients. In contrast, no significant risk factors were found in male PMD patients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUCROC) analysis revealed that the HAMD score and TSH level showed acceptable discriminatory capacity for distinguishing between female PMD patients with and without severe anxiety. This study highlights the heightened prevalence of severe anxiety in PMD patients, with TSH levels and depression severity emerging as gender-specific risk factors for anxiety in females. These findings suggest the importance of thyroid hormone assessment and tailored interventions for managing anxiety in female PMD patients.

Abstract PO3-06-07: Efficacy and safety of sintilimab in combination with anlotinib plus metronomic chemotherapy in advanced triple negative breast cancer (SPACE): preliminary results of a single-arm, multicenter phase II trial

Abstract Background: Antiangiogenic drugs have demonstrated synergistic effect with anti-PD-1 antibody in advanced triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Anlotinib is an oral multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that strongly inhibits VEGFR, PDGFR, FGFR, and c-kit. Preclinical studies showed that metronomic chemotherapy inhibited angiogenesis and enhanced the efficacy of immunotherapy in TNBC via modulation of the tumor immune microenvironment. We hereby conducted a single-arm, multicenter, phase II trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of sintilimab (anti-PD-1 antibody) plus anlotinib and metronomic chemotherapy as a potential novel therapeutic strategy in advanced TNBC and explore potential biomarkers. Methods: Forty-four cases were planning to be included in this trial. The eligible patients who had received no more than two lines of chemotherapy for metastatic disease were enrolled and received sintilimab (200 mg iv q3w) and anlotinib (12 mg po d1-14 q3w) plus capecitabine (500 mg po, tid) or vinorelbine (40 mg po, tiw) until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. The primary endpoint is objective response rate (ORR) and secondary endpoints are disease control rate (DCR), progression free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). The safety profile has also been assessed. Results: As of April 2023, a total of 44 patients were enrolled, and 42 patients were evaluable for efficacy. 3 patients (7.1%) achieved complete response (CR). 6 patients (14.3%) achieved partial response (PR). 25 patients (59.5%) achieved stable disease (SD).The ORR is 21.4% (95%CI 0.103-0.368) and DCR is 81.0% (95%CI 0.810-0.659). The median PFS was 5.06 months (95%CI 2.051-8.069). The most common grade 1 or 2 adverse events (AEs) include elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (52.38%, 22/42), elevated bilirubin (23.81%, 10/42), hand-foot syndrome (22.22%, 8/42), leukopenia (16.67%,7/42), nausea (14.29%, 6/42). Grade 3 AEs include elevated bilirubin (2.38%, 1/42), hypertension (2.38%, 1/42) and herpes zoster (2.38%, 1/42). No grade 4 or 5 AEs occurred. Conclusions: Our date showed that sintilimab in combination with anlotinib plus metronomic chemotherapy have shown favorable efficacy and acceptable safety profile in patients with advanced TNBC. Clinical trial information: ChiCTR2100044725 Citation Format: huihui Li, Dongdong Zhou, Zeshun Yv, Yuqian Liao, Jie Huang, Shujuan Sun, fangchao zheng, Baojiang Li, Shu Fang, Ling Qiang, Guohua Ren, Bing Bu, Pengfei Qiu, Xinzhao Wang, Chao Li, Fangli Cao, Qian Shao, Dali Han, Lihua Song, Baoxuan Zhang, Bingjie Fan, Liang Xu, Xuemei Xie, Xianguang Zhao, Lanping Liu, Wanlong Li, Zhenbo Wang, Changmin Liu, Hui Fu, Xiao Sun, Zhiqiang Shi, Fengxiang Li. Efficacy and safety of sintilimab in combination with anlotinib plus metronomic chemotherapy in advanced triple negative breast cancer (SPACE): preliminary results of a single-arm, multicenter phase II trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO3-06-07.

Pituitary Hyperplasia and Overt Hypothyroidism Induced by Methimazole in an Adolescent Girl with Resistance to Thyroid Hormone Accompanying Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Case Report

We describe a 13-year-old girl who presented at her local hospital with a diffuse goiter and had discrepant thyroid function test (TFT) of elevated free T4 (FT4), free T3 (FT3) levels with mildly elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and a pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) report of a pituitary hyperplasia. She was referred to our hospital where a repeat TFT found low FT4 and high TSH levels, and high levels of antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-TG) antibodies, leading to the diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) with overt primary hypothyroidism. The girl had a good response after daily 100 µg levothyroxine treatment for 8 months with decreased goiter size along with disappearance of the pituitary mass. However, her FT4 and FT3 levels were elevated while the TSH was in the high normal range, although at this time there were no signs of hyperthyroidism. A genetic study confirmed our provisional diagnosis that the patient had a p.Pro453Thr monoallelic loss-of-function mutation of the thyroid hormone receptor beta (THRB) gene, suggesting the diagnosis of coexisting resistance to thyroid hormone-β (RTHβ) and HT in this patient.

Thyroid dysfunction due to trace element deficiency-not only selenium but also zinc.

Levels of serum selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) decrease when total parental nutrition (TPN) is administered without trace element supplementation for just a few weeks. These trace elements are involved in thyroid hormone metabolism and their deficiencies cause thyroid dysfunction. However, there have been few reports on the details of its clinical course. A 50-year-old man presented with thyroid dysfunction due to Se and Zn deficiency. He had an approximately 70-cm residual small intestine after undergoing intestinal resection and he received TPN without trace element supplementation for one and a half months. Blood tests revealed high levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) and low levels of free triiodothyronine (FT3). An abnormal pattern of thyroid function led to suspicion of Se deficiency. Se supplementation raised FT3 levels and lowered FT4 levels to within their respective reference ranges; however, subclinical hypothyroidism persisted with transient TSH elevation. We suspected that Zn deficiency also contributed to the hypothyroidism and, therefore, initiated Zn supplementation, which resulted in normalization of thyroid function. Although thyroid dysfunction has been reported in many studies conducted on Se and Zn deficiencies, hormonal patterns vary between reports. Further accumulation of cases, including detailed data on nutritional status, would be of benefit to elucidate the clinical reality. It is important to consider Se and Zn deficiencies when TSH and FT4 levels are elevated. It should also be noted that transient TSH elevation may be observed with Se supplementation.

The impact of nodule size on malignancy risk in indeterminate thyroid nodules.

The association between malignancy risk and nodule size in indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) remains controversial. Thus, we aimed to explore the impact of nodule size as a predictor of cancer in patients with ITNs. This cross-sectional study assessed 113 patients who underwent surgical intervention for ITNs, comparing two groups based on nodule size (≥4 or <4 cm). The correlation between nodule size and malignancy risk was examined. Other variables of interest included demographics, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, type of surgery, and ultrasound features. Of the 113 patients, 88.5% were aged <55 years, 76.1% were women, and 65.5% had nodules <4 cm. Mean nodule size was 3.4±2.3 cm. There was no significant correlation between malignancy risk and nodule size (P=0.55). An association was observed between <4 cm nodules and elevated TSH levels (P=0.03) and between ≥4 cm nodules and the presence of hypervascularity (P=0.04). Nodules <4 cm were more likely to have extrathyroidal extension, lymphovascular invasion, and positive margins than those ≥4 cm; however, this was not significant. Our findings showed no association between nodule size and malignancy risk, suggesting that size alone is not a predictor of cancer development. Further prospective studies are required to confirm these results.

Relationship between autoimmune thyroid antibodies and anti-nuclear antibodies in general patients.

There is no doubt that both Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves' disease are autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs), but the relationship between anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) and AITDs is poorly studied. The association between thyroid autoantibody levels and ANA positivity was evaluated to assess the role of ANA in AITDs. We conducted an analysis using data from 1,149,893 patients registered at our hospital and 53,021 patients registered in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey databases. We focused on patients with data for thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb)/ANA, TPOAb/immunoglobulin G (IgG), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor antibody (TRAb)/ANA, TRAb/IgG, TSH/ANA, or TSH/IgG. ANA positivity rates were 12.88% and 21.22% in TPOAb/ANA and TSH/ANA patients, respectively. In TPOAb/IgG and TSH/IgG data, high IgG levels (≥15 g/L) were detected in 2.23% and 4.06% of patients, respectively. There were significant differences in ANA positivity rates and high IgG proportions among patients with different TPOAb and TSH levels. TPOAb level was correlated with ANA positivity rate and high IgG proportion, and TSH level was correlated with ANA positivity rate. Regression analysis showed positive correlations between TPOAb levels and ANA positivity risk or high IgG risk, TSH levels and high IgG risk, and elevated TSH and ANA positivity risk. Of patients with TRAb/ANA data, 35.99% were ANA-positive, and 13.93% had TRAb levels ≥1.75IU/L; 18.96% of patients with TRAb/IgG data had high IgG levels, and 16.51% had TRAb levels ≥1.75IU/L. ANA positivity rate and high IgG proportion were not significantly different among different TRAb levels. TRAb levels, ANA positivity risk and high IgG risk were not correlated. ANA positivity and high IgG are related to Hashimoto thyroiditis but not Graves' disease, which implies distinct pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the AITDs.

Prevalence and related factors of first-time suicide attempts in the past 14 days in Chinese adult patients with first-episode drug-naïve major depressive disorder.

This study aimed to identify socio-demographic, physiologic, and psychologic related factors of the first-time suicide attempt (FSA) in the past 14 days in Chinese adult patients with first-episode drug-naïve (FEDN) major depressive disorder (MDD). A total of 1718 adult patients with FEDN MDD were enrolled in this cross-sectional survey. Depression, anxiety symptoms, and suicide attempts were assessed. Additionally, biological samples were collected and measured, while Logistic regression analysis was employed to explore the risk factors for FSA in the past 14 days among FEDN MDD patients. Among suicide attempters, 12.11% (208 out of 1718) reported experiencing FSA in the past 14 days. Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk factors for FSA included more severe anxiety symptoms (OR=1.37, 95%CI: 1.28-1.48, p<0.001), higher levels of total cholesterol (TC) (OR=1.42, 95%CI: 1.13-1.77, p=0.003), and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) (OR=1.13, 95%CI: 1.03-1.25, p=0.01). The regression model exhibited good discriminatory power for FSA with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.82. FEDN MDD patients with more severe anxiety and higher levels of TSH and TC are more likely to develop FSA in the past 14 days. These factors are risk factors for short-term (in the past 14 days) FSA and may serve as indicators for early intervention.

Overt hypothyroidism in pregnancy and language development in offspring: is there an association?

Overt hypothyroidism during pregnancy is linked to various obstetric complications, such as premature birth and fetal death. While some studies have shown that maternal hypothyroidism can impact a child's Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and language development, findings are controversial. The aim of this study was to explore the connection between treated maternal hypothyroidism during pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment, focusing on learning and language and examining related maternal obstetric complications. Group 1 included 31 hypothyroid women with elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (> 10mU/L, > 10µIU/mL) during pregnancy, and Group 2 had 21 euthyroid women with normal TSH levels (0.5-2.5mU/L, 0.5-2.5µIU/mL). Children underwent neuropsycological assessments using the Griffiths-II scale. Pregnancy outcome showed an average gestational age at delivery of 38.2weeks for hypothyroid women, compared to 40weeks for controls, and average birth weight of 2855.6g versus 3285g for controls, with hypothyroid women having children with higher intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) prevalence and more caesarean sections. The 1-min APGAR score was lower for the hypothyroid group's children, at 8.85 versus 9.52. Neuropsychological outcomes showed children of hypothyroid mothers scored lower in neurocognitive development, particularly in the learning and language subscale (subscale C), with a notable correlation between higher maternal TSH levels and lower subscale scores. Fetuses born to hypothyroid mothers appeared to be at higher risk of IUGR and reduced APGAR score at birth. Neurocognitive development seemed to affect language performance more than the developmental quotient. This alteration appeared to correlate with the severity of hypothyroidism and its duration.

Phase 2 Trial Evaluating Minocycline for Geographic Atrophy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Existing therapies to slow geographic atrophy (GA) enlargement in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have relatively modest anatomic efficacy, require intravitreal administration, and increase the risk of neovascular AMD. Additional therapeutic approaches are desirable. To evaluate the safety and possible anatomic efficacy of oral minocycline, a microglial inhibitor, for the treatment of GA in AMD. This was a phase 2, prospective, single-arm, 45-month, nonrandomized controlled trial conducted from December 2016 to April 2023. Patients with GA from AMD in 1 or both eyes were recruited from the National Institutes of Health (Bethesda, Maryland) and Bristol Eye Hospital (Bristol, UK). Study data were analyzed from September 2022 to May 2023. After a 9-month run-in phase, participants began oral minocycline, 100 mg, twice daily for 3 years. The primary outcome measure was the difference in rate of change of square root GA area on fundus autofluorescence between the 24-month treatment phase and 9-month run-in phase. Of the 37 participants enrolled (mean [SD] age, 74.3 [7.6] years; 21 female [57%]), 36 initiated the treatment phase. Of these participants, 21 (58%) completed at least 33 months, whereas 15 discontinued treatment (8 by request, 6 for adverse events/illness, and 1 death). Mean (SE) square root GA enlargement rate in study eyes was 0.31 (0.03) mm per year during the run-in phase and 0.28 (0.02) mm per year during the treatment phase. The primary outcome measure of mean (SE) difference in enlargement rates between the 2 phases was -0.03 (0.03) mm per year (P = .39). Similarly, secondary outcome measures of GA enlargement rate showed no differences between the 2 phases. The secondary outcome measures of mean difference in rate of change between 2 phases were 0.2 letter score per month (95% CI, -0.4 to 0.9; P = .44) for visual acuity and 0.7 μm per month (-0.4 to 1.8; P = .20) for subfoveal retinal thickness. Of the 129 treatment-emergent adverse events among 32 participants, 49 (38%) were related to minocycline (with no severe or ocular events), including elevated thyrotropin level (15 participants) and skin hyperpigmentation/discoloration (8 participants). In this phase 2 nonrandomized controlled trial, oral minocycline was not associated with a decrease in GA enlargement over 24 months, compared with the run-in phase. This observation was consistent across primary and secondary outcome measures. Oral minocycline at this dose is likely not associated with slower rate of enlargement of GA in AMD.

A Role for Thyroid Testing in Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis? 32% Rate of Abnormal Values in Tested Patients.

Hypothyroidism is a known risk factor for slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), and prior studies of hypothyroid-associated SCFE have demonstrated an incidence of up to 6%. However, there is limited evidence and no formal practice guidelines regarding whether patients presenting with SCFE should undergo screening for endocrine disorders. This study aims to investigate the incidence of abnormal thyroid function studies in patients presenting with SCFE. This was a retrospective review of all patients aged 0 to 18 years treated for SCFE at a single pediatric hospital from January 2015 to July 2022. On presentation, patients' BMI, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4, vitamin D, creatinine, BUN, and HbA1c levels were documented. Follow-up and treatment for any identified endocrinopathies were noted. In addition, the chronicity, stability, and severity of their slips were recorded. Ninety-eight patients with 106 hips were included in this study. TSH was obtained at the time of initial presentation in 66% (n=65/98) of patients. Median TSH was 2.99 (range: 0.02 to 919, std dev: 132.4). The normal reference range for our institution is 0.5 to 4.5mcIU/mL. Thirty-two percent (n=21/65) of patients with a documented TSH had an abnormal value. Of those patients who had an elevated TSH, 3 were diagnosed with clinical hypothyroidism and went on to treatment with levothyroxine (n=3/19, 16%), 2 patients had been started on levothyroxine before presentation (n=2/19, 11%), and 2 patients were followed in endocrinology clinic until their TSH levels had normalized without further intervention (n=2/19, 11%). Screening of our SCFE population revealed a 32% incidence of thyroid abnormalities which affected treatment in 24% of those patients. This is a much higher incidence of hypothyroid-associated SCFE than previously demonstrated in the literature and has prompted us to start including thyroid screening studies as a routine part of our workup for all patients with SCFE. Level III.

Impact of mildly evaluated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels on in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes in women with the first fresh embryo transfer: a large study from China.

This study aimed to investigate the association between mild elevation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatments in women with the first fresh embryo transfer. Large single-center retrospective cohort study of 15,728 patients from January 2018 to December 2022 were enrolled in the analyses. Clinical pregnancy rates, live birth rates, miscarriage rates, and ectopic pregnancy rates were compared between the TSH levels < 2.5 mIU/L group (N = 10,932) and TSH levels ≥ 2.5 mIU/L group (N = 4796). Subgroup analysis was performed for patients with TSH levels ≥ 2.5 mIU/L, dividing them into the thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO)-negative group (N = 4524) and the TPO-positive group (N = 272). There were no significant differences in the aforementioned pregnancy outcomes between the TSH levels < 2.5 mIU/L group and TSH levels ≥ 2.5 mIU/L group. Similarly, no significant differences were observed in the pregnancy outcomes between the TPO-negative group and the TPO-positive group. Mildly elevated pre-conception TSH levels in thyroid-normal infertile patients did not have an impact on pregnancy outcomes of IVF/ICSI treatments.

Evaluation of the Thyroid Hormone Status among Normal New Born Preterm Infants

Introduction: Thyroid dysfunction poses a greater risk in preterm newborns (PN) compared to term newborns (TN), often eluding detection in neonatal screening due to delayed thyrotropin (TSH) elevation in these cases. Objective: To assess thyroid function during the second week of life in PN born before 32 weeks gestation and identify factors associated with its alteration. Methods: A retrospective study examined thyroid function in &lt; 32 weeks gestation neonates, analyzing thyroxine (T4L) and TSH levels in relation to perinatal and neonatal outcomes. The study included 358 patients with a mean gestational age of 29.3 weeks and a mean birth weight of 1127 grams. Results: Linear correlations were observed between T4L and birth weight (BW) (R=0.356; p&lt;0.001) and gestational age (GA) (R=0.442; p&lt;0.001). TSH values were associated with small for gestational age (SGA) (5.3 mU/L [1.5-37] for SGA vs. 2.89 mU/L [0.2-19.5] for non-SGA; p&lt;0.001), inotropic support (3.98 mU/L [0.6-22.9] for Yes vs. 3.16 mU/L [0.2-37] for No; p=0.019), and BW (R=-0.249; p&lt;0.001). Levothyroxine treatment was administered to 2.5% of patients, with six being SGA. Conclusions: Analyzing thyroid function in the second week aids in identifying asymptomatic newborns at risk of thyroid dysfunction, particularly in the case of SGA newborns who exhibit a higher susceptibility to thyroid function alterations.

Effects of Levothyroxine Treatment on Fertility and Pregnancy Outcomes in Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism, defined by elevated thyrotropin (TSH) and normal free thyroxine levels, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, and small for gestational age. Despite the uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of levothyroxine (LT4) treatment on pregnancy outcomes in subclinical hypothyroidism, LT4 is widely administered with a pre-treatment threshold TSH level of 2.5 mU/L. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of periconceptional LT4 treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism, including TSH levels >2.5 mU/L, and identify the characteristics of subclinical hypothyroidism that can benefit from LT4 treatment. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials from inception to February 2023. We analyzed the pooled effects of LT4 on subclinical hypothyroidism before and during pregnancy. The main outcomes before pregnancy were live birth, pregnancy, and miscarriage. The main outcomes during pregnancy were live birth, miscarriage, and preterm birth. We conducted subgroup analyses to compare the effects of LT4 on subclinical hypothyroidism with TSH levels of 2.5-4.0 and >4.0 mU/L. Results: Of the 888 studies identified, 27 full-text articles were screened for eligibility. Five studies on pre-conception treatment with 768 participants and eight studies on treatment during early pregnancy with 2622 participants were analyzed. One of the two studies on pre-conception treatment in subclinical hypothyroidism with TSH >4.0 mU/L had high risk of bias and the other was composed of 64 participants. Pre-conception LT4 treatment had no significant effect in improving rates of live births and pregnancies, or reducing miscarriages (risk ratio [RR], 95% confidence interval): 1.41 (0.84-2.36), 1.73 (0.88-3.39), and 0.46 (0.11-2.00), respectively. LT4 treatment during pregnancy was not significantly associated with higher rates of live births (RR 1.03, 0.98-1.09) nor decreased miscarriage rates (RR 1.01, 0.66-1.53). The effect of LT4 treatment on preterm birth during pregnancy was significantly different depending on the TSH values (p = 0.04); a positive effect was shown in the subclinical hypothyroidism subgroup with TSH >4.0 mU/L (RR 0.47, 0.20-1.10), while no significant effect was observed in the subgroup with TSH 2.5-4.0 mU/L (RR 1.35, 0.79-2.31). Conclusions: Pre-conceptional LT4 treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism does not improve fertility or decrease the incidence of miscarriages. However, further well-designed studies are needed for pre-conceptional treatment, especially in TSH >4.0 mU/L. LT4 treatment during pregnancy had a positive effect on preterm birth; nevertheless, this was only applicable to subclinical hypothyroidism with TSH >4.0 mU/L.

Pericardial effusion in a patient of celiac disease and hypothyroidism: A case report

Celiac disease (CD) can be defined as an autoimmune chronic disorder in gluten-intolerant individuals producing malabsorption of nutrients and vitamins. The presence of CD in individuals causes an alteration in the absorption and pharmacokinetics of certain drugs. This poses a great challenge in maintaining serum thyrotropin levels in hypothyroidism patients on replacement therapy with levothyroxine (LT4). In this report, we present the case of a 39-year-old woman with hypothyroidism, pericardial effusion, and (previously unrecognized) CD. Our patient was a known case of hypothyroidism with a history of previous hospitalization for an episode of acute gastroenteritis. In our clinic, after an initial workup, the patient was continued on LT4 supplement, oral iron, and multivitamins. During her follow-up visit, when an anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA-positive report was available, a gluten-free diet was advised. Following this, the clinical condition of the patient improved drastically, accompanied by a fall in elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. This case highlights the necessity of understanding the etiology of rising serum TSH levels, hence ruling out malabsorption. Pericardial effusion, being a rare complication of hypothyroidism and CD, may lead to adverse cardiac events, hence resulting in hospitalization and patient disability.

Understanding and approach of Ayurveda management towards a unique case of Hashimoto Thyroiditis - A Case Report

Hashimoto thyroiditis is also known as chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease in which thyroid cells are destroyed via cell and antibody-mediated immune processes. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries. The Pathophysiology of Hashimoto Thyroiditis involves the formation of antithyroid antibodies that attack the thyroid tissue, causing progressive fibrosis. The condition is sometimes not diagnosed until late in the disease process. The most common laboratory findings demonstrate elevated Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and low Thyroxine (T4) levels, coupled with increased anti thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with Rasavaha Sroto Vikara, Dhatwagnimandya, Vataja Pandu, Pittavruta Vata based on symptoms. Case Report: In this present study a female patient aged 37 years, known case of Hashimoto Thyroiditis since 8 years was treated with Shiro Takradhara, Sarvanga Abhynaga, Virechana and specific Shamanaushadhi’s as per signs and symptoms. Results: After 2 months of treatment there was a significant reduction in the signs and symptoms of the disease with 70% improvement in the condition.

Role of thyroid stimulating hormone in the maintenance and functioning of the human corpus luteum.

To evaluate the impact of high thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels on human granulosa-luteal (hGL) cells. hGL cells were isolated from follicular aspirates derived from patients undergoing IVF treatment without any thyroid disorder (serum TSH 0.5-2mU/L). Cells were cultured at 37°C in DMEM, supplemented with 5% FBS. The cells were treated with 1nM LH and increasing concentrations of TSH. At the end of culture, conditioned medium and cells were collected to analyze progesterone production, cell viability, and mRNA levels of genes involved in the steroidogenesis process. Human ovarian tissues were analyzed for TSH receptor (TSHR) expression by IHC. The expression of TSHR was detected in human corpus luteum by IHC and in hGL by RT-PCR. In hGL cells, TSH treatment did not modulate progesterone production nor the expression of steroidogenic genes, such as p450scc and HSD3b 1/2. However, TSH induced a dose-dependent increase in cell death. Finally, TSH did not affect LH-induced p450scc and HSD3b1/2 expression while LH partially reverted TSH negative effect on cell death in hGL. Elevated TSH levels in hypothyroid women may be associated with impaired CL functioning and maintenance. These findings open a new line of research for the importance of the treatment of women with thyroid dysfunction that could contribute to the onset of infertility.

Lack of Association Between Depression and Subclinical Hypothyroidism in Adolescents Presenting for Routine Physical Examinations.

There are conflicting results in the existing studies regarding the association between depression and subclinical hypothyroidism in adolescents. Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined as elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels above the reference range without signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism. The focus of this study is to determine whether there is any association between depression and subclinical hypothyroidism, (as defined by the serum TSH levels) in a population of healthy adolescents. Quantitative-based cross-sectional study of a representative subset of the adolescent population. We carried out a cross-sectional study to determine the association between major depressive disorder (MDD) and subclinical hypothyroidism, in adolescents presenting for annual physical examinations during the peak period of the COVID-19 pandemic in the USA, a period deemed high for adolescent depression. All the adolescents were screened for depression by the PHQ-9 screening tool and had their TSH measured. Of the 304 subjects analyzed, 179 (58.88%) were minimally or not depressed according to the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) screening tool (mean PHQ 1.80 ± 1.49). 70 (23.03%) had mild depression (mean PHQ 6.59 ± 1.46), 50 (16.45%) had moderate depression (mean PHQ 13.70 ± 2.75), and 5 (1.64%) had severe depression (mean PHQ 21.40 ± 1.67). Mean TSH values were 1.93 ± 0.99, 1.77 ± 1.05, 2.10 ± 0.98, and 1.57 ± 0.32 mIU/L, respectively in the four groups. All values were within the recommended range of 0.50 to 4.30 mIU/L, without statistically significant inter-group differences. We conclude that there is no statistically significant association between depression and subclinical hypothyroidism, in a population of adolescents presenting for physical examinations, and if the screening for depression by the PHQ-9 tool indicates depression, a screening TSH test for subclinical hypothyroidism is not justified.

A Rare Clinical Scenario of Hypothyroid-induced Rhabdomyolysis

Abstract Muscle involvement is common in hypothyroidism and is seen in nearly 80% of the cases. However, rhabdomyolysis is a rare manifestation and is usually triggered by precipitating factors such as exercise, statins, and toxins. We describe the case of a 58-year-old woman with de novo hypothyroidism presenting with severe rhabdomyolysis requiring hemodialysis. A 58-year-old diabetic and hypertensive female was presented at our tertiary care center with symptoms of generalized weakness, difficulty in walking, and decreased urine output. Her blood investigations showed elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK), renal parameters, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels suggestive of autoimmune thyroiditis with rhabdomyolysis. She was treated with thyroid hormone supplementation and hemodialysis. The patient recovered gradually with normalization of renal parameters. Although muscle involvement is common in hypothyroidism, rhabdomyolysis is a rare manifestation. Diagnosis is established by demonstrating elevated CPK and TSH levels. Management consists of hydration and thyroid hormone supplementation. Hemodialysis is required in severe cases with established acute kidney injury.