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Harsini AR, Mohajeri-Tehrani MR, Sajjadi-Jazi SM, Naeini F, Valisoltani N, Sadeghi E, Mohammadi H, Hosseini S. Are resting metabolic rate and clinical symptoms affected by variation of serum thyroid stimulating hormone levels within the normal range in healthy and women with hypothyroidism? A case-control study. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2024; 61:71-78. [PMID: 38777475 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether variation in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels within the reference range affect energy expenditure and clinical symptoms and even within the normal range of TSH levels, resting energy expenditure may alter. The aim of the present study was to determine whether treated hypothyroid subjects and healthy subjects with a low-normal TSH range (0.3-2.3 mIU/L) have better clinical outcomes and increased energy expenditure than those with a high-normal TSH range (2.3-4.3 mIU/L). METHODS This was a case-control study of 160 overweight/obese women with TSH levels across the reference range of 0.3-4.3 mU/l. Subjects were paired in four groups: healthy subjects with low-normal target TSH (n = 40), healthy subjects with high-normal target TSH (n = 40), subjects with treated hypothyroidism with low-normal target TSH (n = 40), and subjects with treated hypothyroidism with high-normal target TSH (n = 40). Resting energy expenditure (RMR), dietary intake, body composition, physical activity, and biochemical markers were assessed. RESULTS Subjects with low-normal (≤2.3 mU/L) and high-normal (>2.3 mU/L) TSH levels did not differ in terms of RMR, serum T3 levels, and clinical symptoms except fatigue (P = 0.013). However, serum fT4 levels were found to be significantly different between the study groups (P = 0.002). Serum fT4 concentration was the highest in subjects with treated hypothyroidism with low-normal target TSH. CONCLUSION Variation in serum TSH levels within the reference range did not significantly affect REE and clinical symptoms except fatigue in healthy and women with hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Rajabi Harsini
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Mohajeri-Tehrani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayed Mahmoud Sajjadi-Jazi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Naeini
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Valisoltani
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Erfan Sadeghi
- Research Consultation Center (RCC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Hosseini
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Hidalgo J, Lincango EP, Cordova-Madera S, Ruiz-Arellanos K, Wenczenovicz C, Ponce O, Álvarez-Villalobos N, Rao A, Singh Ospina NM, Maraka S, Acosta GJ, Brito JP. Interventions to improve symptomatology in patients with hypothyroidism and persistent symptoms: A systematic review. Endocrine 2024:10.1007/s12020-024-03816-1. [PMID: 38622434 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03816-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levothyroxine (LT4) monotherapy is the standard treatment for hypothyroidism; however, 10-15% of patients have persistent hypothyroid symptoms despite normalizing thyroid hormone levels with LT4. This study aims to summarize the best available evidence on interventions to improve symptomatology in patients with hypothyroidism and persistent symptoms. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in March 2022 for randomized controlled trials and observational studies on interventions for adult patients with persistent hypothyroid symptoms despite biochemical euthyroidism on thyroid hormone replacement. RESULTS A total of 277 articles were reviewed and seven fulfilled the inclusion criteria. 455 participants were included. Most intervention participants were female (78.6%) with a mean age of 47.5 (±2.8) years. Five clinical trials evaluating ginger (vs. starch), L-carnitine (vs. placebo), combination LT4 and liothyronine (LT3) (vs. LT4 or placebo), and surgery for patients with serum antithyroid peroxidase (TPO Ab) titers greater than 1000 IU/ml (vs. LT4) found inconsistent improvement in hypothyroidism related symptoms and general health. The two clinical trials with the largest improvement in fatigue scores were the use of ginger and surgery. One observational study comparing thyroidectomy vs observation found no significant difference on general health. Lastly, another observational study evaluating combination LT4/LT3 (vs. LT4 monotherapy) found improvement in fatigue and quality of life. There were 31 (12%) adverse events in the intervention group and 18 (10.8%) in the comparator group. CONCLUSIONS There is no high-quality evidence supporting any intervention for persistent symptoms in hypothyroidism. Available evidence, limited by the risk of bias, inconsistency, and heterogeneity, suggests that some persistent symptoms, particularly fatigue, could improve with ginger and thyroidectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hidalgo
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Rutgers Health Community Medical Center, Internal Medicine, Toms River, NJ, USA
| | - Eddy P Lincango
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- CaTaLiNA Research Initiative (Cancer de tiroides en Latinoamerica), Quito, Ecuador
- University of Central Florida, Department of Surgery, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Sandra Cordova-Madera
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Kim Ruiz-Arellanos
- Facultad de Medicina Alberto Hurtado, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Camila Wenczenovicz
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Oscar Ponce
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Frimley Park Hospital, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, Camberley, UK
| | | | - Arbaaz Rao
- Rutgers Health Community Medical Center, Internal Medicine, Toms River, NJ, USA
| | - Naykky M Singh Ospina
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Spyridoula Maraka
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Endocrine Section, Medicine Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Gonzalo J Acosta
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Juan P Brito
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Riis KR, Larsen CB, Bonnema SJ. Potential Risks and Benefits of Desiccated Thyroid Extract for the Treatment of Hypothyroidism: A Systematic Review. Thyroid 2024. [PMID: 38526391 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Background: Desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) is no longer recommended for the treatment of hypothyroidism but is still in use. This review aimed to summarize the available literature on treatment with DTE in adult patients with hypothyroidism. Methods: The search was conducted up until January 6, 2024, in six electronic databases. Two reviewers independently screened all the search results. The retrieved studies compared DTE treatment with levothyroxine or combination therapy with liothyronine and levothyroxine. The primary outcome was quality of life (QoL), and the secondary outcomes included symptoms, treatment preference, adverse effects, thyroid hormone levels, thyroid autoantibodies, cardiovascular measures, and gene polymorphisms in deiodinase enzymes. Results: In the qualitative synthesis, we included nine nonrandomized studies of interventions (NRSIs), two randomized clinical trials (RCTs), and three case reports. The overall quality of evidence was moderate to very low for the various outcomes. The RCTs found no difference between treatments regarding QoL and symptom score assessments. In the NRSIs, symptom and QoL assessments were in favor of DTE. The included studies indicated that DTE may cause an increase in heart rate, lower body weight, and lower high-density lipoprotein compared with other treatment regimens, but results were conflicting. Conclusions: Most studies of DTE treatment are hampered by an inferior design, and data on long-term effects and side effects are lacking. Two RCTs could not demonstrate any difference in QoL or symptom scores when comparing DTE with other thyroid hormone substitutions. Future trials of DTE in patients with hypothyroidism should be based on adequate study designs, validated measures of QoL, patients with reduced QoL, and the assessment of biomarkers reflecting long-term adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamilla Ryom Riis
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Camilla Bøgelund Larsen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Steen Joop Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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4
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Hadi ZM, Alidrisi HA, Mansour AA. Triiodothyronine/Thyroxine Ratio as a Marker of Clinical Response to Levothyroxine Replacement in Patients With Hypothyroidism. Cureus 2024; 16:e58370. [PMID: 38756268 PMCID: PMC11097253 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypothyroidism is one of the most common endocrine disorders with a simple therapy, that is levothyroxine (LT4). A normal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) measurement is used as a marker of optimal replacement. But, many patients still have symptoms. Triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and their ratio may correlate with clinical improvement. The study aims to assess the T3/T4 ratio as a marker of clinical response in patients with hypothyroidism. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to November 2022 at Faiha Specialized Diabetes, Endocrine, and Metabolism Center, in Basrah, southern Iraq. We included 48 adult patients with primary hypothyroidism on LT4 treatment only and TSH within the target reference range for at least within the last six months. Each patient was subjected to a questionnaire that was designed to capture hypothyroidism-related complaints in the form of a five-point Likert scale. Biochemical assessments were done with the measurement of TSH, T3, and T4. RESULTS Despite having a normal TSH level, nearly all the patients had persistent and varying severity of clinical complaints of hypothyroidism. Tiredness, hair problems, weight gain, and cold intolerance were the most severely persistent symptoms. Patients with scores of two and more for weight gain, cold intolerance, and skin problems had significantly lower T3/T4 ratios (P = 0.04, 0.002, and 0.02, respectively), while in the remaining clinical symptoms, the T3/T4 ratio did not differ significantly. CONCLUSION A low T3/T4 ratio was significantly associated with resistant symptoms of hypothyroidism and may be used as a marker for treatment efficacy with TSH rather than TSH value alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaid M Hadi
- Medicine, Faiha Specialized Diabetes, Endocrine, and Metabolism Center, Basrah, IRQ
| | - Haider A Alidrisi
- Diabetes and Endocrinology, Faiha Specialized Diabetes, Endocrine, and Metabolism Center, Basrah, IRQ
- Diabetes and Endocrinology, University of Basrah, College of Medicine, Basrah, IRQ
| | - Abbas A Mansour
- Diabetes and Endocrinology, Faiha Specialized Diabetes, Endocrine, and Metabolism Center, Basrah, IRQ
- Diabetes and Endocrinology, University of Basrah, College of Medicine, Basrah, IRQ
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5
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Raij T, Raij K. Association between fatigue, peripheral serotonin, and L-carnitine in hypothyroidism and in chronic fatigue syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1358404. [PMID: 38505756 PMCID: PMC10948554 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1358404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fatigue of unknown origin is a hallmark symptom in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and is also found in 20% of hypothyroidism patients despite appropriate levothyroxine treatment. Here, we suggest that in these disorders, peripheral serotonin levels are low, and elevating them to normal range with L-carnitine is accompanied with reduced fatigue. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of follow-up clinical data (CFS N=12; hypothyroidism with fatigue N=40) where serum serotonin and fatigue levels were compared before vs. after 7 weeks of oral L-carnitine supplementation. Results After L-carnitine, serotonin increased (8-fold in CFS, Sig. = 0.002, 6-fold in hypothyroidism, Sig. < 0.001) whereas fatigue decreased (2-fold in both CFS and hypothyroidism, Sig. = 0.002 for CFS, Sig. < 0.001 for hypothyroidism). There was a negative correlation between serotonin level and fatigue (for CFS, rho = -0.49 before and -0.67 after L-carnitine; for hypothyroidism, rho = -0.24 before and -0.83 after L-carnitine). Conclusions These findings suggest a new link between low peripheral serotonin, L-carnitine, and fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommi Raij
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department Of Neurobiology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- MGH/MIT/HMS Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, MGH Department of Radiology, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kari Raij
- Kruunuhaka Medical Center, Helsinki, Finland
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Molewijk E, Fliers E, Dreijerink K, van Dooren A, Heerdink R. Quality of life, daily functioning, and symptoms in hypothyroid patients on thyroid replacement therapy: A Dutch survey. J Clin Transl Endocrinol 2024; 35:100330. [PMID: 38357535 PMCID: PMC10864335 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcte.2024.100330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the nature and extent of possible residual complaints among Dutch hypothyroid patients using thyroid replacement therapy, we initiated a comprehensive study measuring health-related quality of life (QoL), daily functioning, and hypothyroidism-associated symptoms in patients and control persons. Methods An online survey measuring thyroid-specific QoL (ThyPRO), daily functioning, and hypothyroidism-associated symptoms (ThySHI) was distributed among treated hypothyroid patients and control individuals. The advertising text was formulated in an open-ended manner. Patients also provided their most recent thyroid blood values and their thyroid medication. Results There was a large-sized impairment of QoL (Cohen's d = 1.04, +93 % ThyPRO score) in hypothyroid patients on thyroid replacement therapy (n = 1195) as compared to controls (n = 236). Daily functioning was significantly reduced i.e., general health (-38 %), problems with vigorous- (+64 %) and moderate activities (+77 %). Almost 80 % of patients reported having complaints despite thyroid medication and in-range thyroid blood values, with 75 % expressing a desire for improved treatment options for hypothyroidism (total n = 1194). Hypothyroid patients experienced 2.8 times more intense hypothyroidism-associated symptoms than controls (n = 865, n = 203 resp). Patients' median reported serum concentrations were: TSH 0.90 mU/L, FT4 17.0 pmol/L, and FT3 2.67 pmol/L, with 52 % having low T3 levels (<3.1 pmol/L). The QoL was not found to be related to age, sex, BMI, menopausal status, stress, serum thyroid parameters, the origin and duration of hypothyroidism, the type of thyroid medication, or the LT4 dose used. Conclusions Our study revealed major reductions in quality of life and daily functioning, and nearly three times more intense hypothyroidism-associated symptoms in treated hypothyroid patients as compared to controls, despite treatment and largely in-range serum TSH/FT4 concentrations. The QoL was not associated with serum thyroid parameters. We recommend future research into the origin of persisting complaints and the development of improved treatment modalities for hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Molewijk
- University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eric Fliers
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, the Netherlands
| | - Koen Dreijerink
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU University, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, the Netherlands
| | - Ad van Dooren
- University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rob Heerdink
- University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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7
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Hidalgo J, Vallejo BA, Soto Jacome C, Ayala IN, Cordova S, Duran M, Golembiewski E, Toro-Tobon D, Brito JP. Real Practice Assessment of Persistent Symptoms After Initiation of Levothyroxine. Endocr Pract 2024; 30:95-100. [PMID: 37913925 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.10.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Levothyroxine (LT4) is the standard treatment for hypothyroidism. However, certain patients experience persistent symptoms even after achieving euthyroid status with LT4 therapy. We aimed to determine the frequency of persistent or new symptoms in patients with hypothyroidism after initiating LT4. METHODS This retrospective study included patients with hypothyroidism who started on LT4 between January 2017 and December 2019 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, USA. Five hundred patient charts were randomly selected for review. Patients with at least 1 documented follow-up encounter after LT4 initiation were evaluated for ≤3 follow-up visits regarding their biochemical status and symptoms. RESULTS We included 356 patients, a majority of whom were female (66.6%), white (92.3%), and obese (71.9%), with an average age of 59.5 years. At the baseline visit, approximately one-half of the patients (177/356, 47.7%) reported hypothyroid symptoms, with fatigue being the most common symptom. During the follow-up periods, we observed that 17.8% (28/157), 17.9% (19/106), and 19.3% (11/57) of patients had normal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values but persistent symptoms, while 12.3% (19/156), 19.9% (16/107), and 8.9% (5/56) had normal TSH values but new symptoms. Overall, during each respective follow-up period, 26.7% (42/157), 27.3% (29/106), and 28% (16/57) of patients experienced persistent or new symptoms alongside normal TSH values, with fatigue being the most constant symptom. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that approximately 1 in every 4 patients with hypothyroidism receiving LT4 therapy and achieving normal TSH levels experience persistent or new hypothyroid symptoms. The cause of these symptoms remains unclear, emphasizing the need for a better understanding of their underlying causes and the development of effective management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hidalgo
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Cristian Soto Jacome
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Ivan N Ayala
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Sandra Cordova
- Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Mayra Duran
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Elizabeth Golembiewski
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - David Toro-Tobon
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Juan P Brito
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit in Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
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Abstract
Levothyroxine (LT4) is effective for most patients with hypothyroidism. However, a minority of the patients remain symptomatic despite the normalization of serum thyrotropin levels. Randomized clinical trials including all types of patients with hypothyroidism revealed that combination levothyroxine and liothyronine (LT4+LT3) therapy is safe and is the preferred choice of patients versus LT4 alone. Many patients who do not fully benefit from LT4 experience improved quality of life and cognition after switching to LT4+LT3. For these patients, new slow-release LT3 formulations that provide stable serum T3 levels are being tested. In addition, progress in regenerative technology has led to the development of human thyroid organoids that restore euthyroidism after being transplanted into hypothyroid mice. Finally, there is a new understanding that, under certain conditions, T3 signaling may be compromised in a tissue-specific fashion while systemic thyroid function is preserved. This is seen, for example, in patients with metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease, for whom liver-selective T3-like molecules have been utilized successfully in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA;
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Cappelli C, Gatta E, Ippolito S. Levothyroxine personalized treatment: is it still a dream? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1334292. [PMID: 38260167 PMCID: PMC10801080 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1334292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Levothyroxine is a milestone in the treatment of all causes of hypothyroidism. From 19th century till today, Levothyroxine experienced a great advancement, from hypodermic injections of an extract of the thyroid gland of a sheep to novel formulations, known to circumvent malabsorption issue. However, the rate of patients on suboptimal therapy is still high. Current Guidelines are clear, daily Levothyroxine dosage should be calculated based on body weight. However, we are still far away from the possibility to administer the right dosage to the right patient, for several reasons. We retrace the history of treatment with levothyroxine, pointing out strengths and weaknesses of different formulations, with particular attention to what keeps us away from tailored therapy. In the age of digitalization, the pharmaceutical industry has been giving rising importance to Digital therapeutics, that are known to be effective in reaching target therapies. By combining current knowledge of hypothyroidism therapy with cutting-edge technology, we also hypothesized what could be the future strategies to be developed in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Cappelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Gatta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ippolito
- Consulcesi Homnya, Head of Omnichannel Strategy & Project Management, Rome, Italy
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10
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Brigante G, Santi D, Boselli G, Margiotta G, Corleto R, Monzani ML, Craparo A, Locaso M, Sperduti S, Roy N, Casarini L, Trenti T, Tagliavini S, De Santis MC, Roli L, Rochira V, Simoni M. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial on levothyroxine and liothyronine combination therapy in totally thyroidectomized subjects: the LEVOLIO study. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 190:12-22. [PMID: 38124252 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite having normal thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, many hypothyroid patients are dissatisfied with the treatment. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of twice-daily, combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) and liothyronine (LT3), at doses adapted according to TSH-level, on peripheral tissues as reflected by sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels in totally thyroidectomized patients. Changes in other tissue markers and quality of life considering DIO2-rs225014 and MCT10-rs17606253 genetic variants were also assessed. DESIGN Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled. METHODS One hundred and forty-one subjects were randomized to LT4 + LT3 group (LT4 + LT3 in the morning and LT3 in the evening; n = 70) or placebo group (LT4 in the morning and placebo in the evening; n = 71). Pituitary-thyroid axis compensation was assessed after 6, 12, and 24 weeks. Clinical parameters, quality of life, and tissue markers (sex hormone binding globulin, serum lipids, bone markers) were evaluated at 12 and 24 weeks. DIO2 and MCT10 single nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped. RESULTS The LT4 + LT3 group was treated with mean daily LT3 doses of 5.00 µg, with a mean daily LT4 reduction of 15 µg. After 6 months of treatment, neither SHBG and other tissue markers nor quality of life differed significantly between groups. Combination treatment required greater dose adjustments than placebo (25% vs 54%, P < .001), due to thyroid-stimulating hormone reduction, without hyperthyroidism signs or symptoms. At the end of treatment, the LT4 + placebo group had significantly lower fT3/fT4 compared to the LT4 + LT3 group (0.26 ± 0.05 vs 0.32 ± 0.08, P < .001). No preference for combination therapy was found. Genetic variants did not influence any outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Six months of combination therapy with twice-daily LT3 dose adapted according to TSH-level do not significantly change peripheral tissue response or quality of life, despite an increase in the fT3/fT4 ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Brigante
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Gisella Boselli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluca Margiotta
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Corleto
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Monzani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Craparo
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Michela Locaso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Sperduti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Neena Roy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Trenti
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Anatomy Pathology, Azienda USL Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Simonetta Tagliavini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Anatomy Pathology, Azienda USL Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina De Santis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Anatomy Pathology, Azienda USL Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Roli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Anatomy Pathology, Azienda USL Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41126 Modena, Italy
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11
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Quiroz-Aldave JE, Concepción-Zavaleta MJ, Durand-Vásquez MDC, Concepción-Urteaga LA, Gamarra-Osorio ER, Suárez-Rojas J, Rafael-Robles LDP, Paz-Ibarra J, Román-González A. Refractory Hypothyroidism: Unraveling the Complexities of Diagnosis and Management. Endocr Pract 2023; 29:1007-1016. [PMID: 37714332 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Refractory hypothyroidism (RH) represents a challenge in the diagnosis and treatment within the field of thyroidology. It is defined as the inability to achieve disease control despite using levothyroxine (LT4) doses of 1.9 μg/kg/d or higher. METHODS A comprehensive review, encompassing 103 articles, was conducted using the Scielo, Scopus, and EMBASE databases, providing an approach to evaluation and diagnosis of this condition. RESULTS LT4 disintegrates and dissolves within an acidic gastric environment before being absorbed in the jejunum and ileum. It then extensively binds to serum transporter proteins and undergoes deiodination to yield tri-iodothyronine, the biologically active hormone. There are various nonpathological causes of RH, such as noncompliance with treatment, changes in the brand of LT4, food and drug interferences, as well as pregnancy. Pathological causes include lactose intolerance, Helicobacter pylori infection, giardiasis, among others. The diagnosis of RH involves conducting a thorough medical history and requesting relevant laboratory tests to rule out causes of treatment resistance. The LT4 absorption test allows for the identification of cases of malabsorption. The treatment of RH involves identifying and addressing the underlying causes of noncompliance or malabsorption. In cases of pseudomalabsorption, supervised and weekly administration of LT4 may be considered. DISCUSSION Early recognition of RH and correction of its underlying cause are of utmost importance, as this avoids the use of excessive doses of LT4 and prevents cardiovascular and bone complications associated with this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Eduardo Quiroz-Aldave
- Division of Non-Communicable Diseases, Endocrinology Research Line, Hospital de Apoyo Chepén, Chepén, Perú
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - José Paz-Ibarra
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
| | - Alejandro Román-González
- Division of Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario de San Vicente Fundación, Medellín, Colombia; Division of Internal Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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12
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Wouters HJCM, Wolffenbuttel BHR, Muller Kobold AC, Links TP, Huls G, van der Klauw MM. Hypothyroidism, comorbidity and health-related quality of life: a population-based study. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e230266. [PMID: 37855378 PMCID: PMC10692699 DOI: 10.1530/ec-23-0266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism is associated with a decreased health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We hypothesized that individuals with hypothyroidism (defined as use of thyroid hormone (TH)) and especially those having an impaired HRQoL are characterized by a high prevalence of comorbid disorders and that the impact of hypothyroidism and comorbidity on HRQoL is synergistic. Presence of comorbidity was based on data obtained using structured questionnaires, physical examination, biochemical measurements and verified medication use. Single morbidities were clustered into 14 different disease domains. HRQoL was measured using the RAND-36. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine the effect of TH use on the odds of having an affected disease domain and a lower score than an age- and sex-specific reference value for HRQoL. TH was used by 4537/14,7201 participants of the population-based Lifelines cohort with a mean (± s.d.) age of 51.0 ± 12.8 years (88% females). Eighty-five percent of the TH users had ≥1 affected disease domain in contrast to 71% of nonusers. TH use was associated with a higher odds of 13 out of 14 affected disease domains independent of age and sex. In a multivariable model, TH use was associated with a decreased HRQoL across six out of eight dimensions. No significant interactions between TH use and affected disease domains were observed. TH users with an impaired HRQoL had significantly more comorbidity than those not having an impaired HRQoL. In this large, population-based study, we demonstrated that TH users had more comorbidity than individuals not using TH. The coexistence of other chronic medical conditions in subjects with TH use led to further lowering of HRQoL in an additive manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanneke J C M Wouters
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bruce H R Wolffenbuttel
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anneke C Muller Kobold
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thera P Links
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gerwin Huls
- Department of Hematology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Melanie M van der Klauw
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
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13
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Biondi B, Pucci M, Pontieri G, Formisano P, Esposito R. Preliminary Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Cardiometabolic Effects of Levothyroxine and Liothyronine Compared to Levothyroxine with Placebo in Athyreotic Low-Risk Thyroid Cancer Patients. Thyroid 2023; 33:1402-1413. [PMID: 37725587 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Background: Evidence is needed on the risks and benefits of combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4)+liothyronine (LT3) for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Objective and Methods: We performed a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study to assess the effects of LT4+LT3 therapy versus LT4+placebo in a homogeneous group of athyreotic patients, without cardiovascular risk factors during long-term replacement monotherapy with LT4. The primary objective of the study was to assess the effects of combination LT4+LT3 therapy on heart rate, cardiac rhythm, and sensitive cardiovascular parameters of cardiac morphology and function by means of electrocardiography and Doppler echocardiography. The secondary objective of the study was to evaluate patient compliance, tolerability, and potential adverse events. Results: Thirty-eight patients with postsurgical hypothyroidism satisfying the inclusion criteria were selected from a group of 300 patients with low-risk thyroid cancer followed for a routine follow-up; they were randomized to receive LT4+LT3 or LT4+placebo. Twenty-four patients were evaluated after 1 year of treatment. All clinical and laboratory parameters were compared with the results obtained from 50 healthy euthyroid volunteers without comorbidities, matched for gender, age, physical activity, and lifestyle. Participants and clinicians remained blinded to the treatment allocation. After 1 year of combination therapy, a significant improvement in the diastolic function, evidenced by a significant reduction in the E/e' ratio (p = 0.046) and its positive trend over time, was observed in the LT4+LT3 group versus the LT4+placebo group. In addition, the univariate analyses showed a significant relationship between free triiodothyronine (fT3) levels (in pg/mL) with Δ of variation of the E/e' ratio in the LT4+LT3 group (standardized β coefficient = 0.603 [confidence interval: 0.001-1.248], p = 0.050) after combination therapy. No adverse events including tachycardia, arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, or other important events occurred between the first administration and the end of the study. Conclusions: In this preliminary report, combination treatment with LT4+LT3 induced favorable changes in cardiovascular parameters of diastolic function without any adverse cardiovascular events. Trial Registration: EUDRACT number: 2017-001261-25.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Biondi
- Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Pucci
- Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Pontieri
- Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro Formisano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Esposito
- Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Biondi B, Celi FS, McAninch EA. Critical Approach to Hypothyroid Patients With Persistent Symptoms. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2708-2716. [PMID: 37071856 PMCID: PMC10686697 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism is a common condition, and numerous studies have been published over the last decade to assess the potential risks associated with this disorder when inappropriately treated. The standard of care for treatment of hypothyroidism remains levothyroxine (LT4) at doses to achieve biochemical and clinical euthyroidism. However, about 15% of hypothyroid patients experience residual hypothyroid symptoms. Some population-based studies and international population-based surveys have confirmed dissatisfaction with LT4 treatment in some hypothyroid patients. It is well established that hypothyroid patients treated with LT4 exhibit higher serum thyroxine:triiodothyronine ratios and can have a persistent increase in cardiovascular risk factors. Moreover, variants in deiodinases and thyroid hormone transporter genes have been associated with subnormal T3 concentrations, persistent symptoms in LT4-treated patients, and improvement in response to the addition of liothyronine to LT4 therapy. The American (ATA) and European Thyroid Association (ETA) guidelines have recently evolved in their recognition of the potential limitations of LT4. This shift is reflected in prescribing patterns: Physicians' use of combination therapy is prevalent and possibly increasing. Randomized clinical trials have recently been published and, while they have found no improvement in treating hypothyroid patients, a number of important limitations did not allow generalizability. Meta-analyses have reported a preference rate for combination therapy in 46.2% hypothyroid patients treated with LT4. To promote discussions about an optimal study design, the ATA, ETA, and British Thyroid Association have recently published a consensus document. Our study provides a useful counterpoint on the controversial benefits of treating hypothyroid patients with combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Biondi
- Division of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco S Celi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030-8075, USA
| | - Elizabeth A McAninch
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gerontology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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15
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Larsen CB, Winther KH, Cramon PK, Rasmussen ÅK, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Groenvold M, Bjorner JB, Hegedüs L, Watt T, Bonnema SJ. Severity of hypothyroidism is inversely associated with impaired quality of life in patients referred to an endocrine clinic. Thyroid Res 2023; 16:37. [PMID: 37658415 PMCID: PMC10472621 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00178-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the association between health-related quality of life (HRQL) and the severity of hypothyroidism at diagnosis in patients referred to a secondary hospital clinic. METHODS Sixty-seven adult patients referred from primary care were enrolled. All patients had newly diagnosed hypothyroidism due to autoimmune thyroiditis and were treated with levothyroxine (LT4). The dose was adjusted according to thyroid function tests aiming at a normal plasma thyrotropin. Patients were stratified according to the severity of hypothyroidism in two different ways: the conventional approach (subclinical or overt hypothyroidism) and a novel approach according to the change (decrease or increase) in plasma level of free triiodothyronine index (FT3I) following LT4 treatment. The ThyPRO-39 questionnaire was used for measurement of HRQL at referral to the Endocrine Outpatient Clinic (higher score corresponds to worse HRQL). RESULTS Free thyroxine index (FT4I) at diagnosis correlated positively with the scores on the Hypothyroid Symptoms and Tiredness scales (p = 0.018 for both). In accordance, patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (n = 36) scored higher on Hypothyroid Symptoms (p = 0.029) than patients with overt hypothyroidism (n = 31). The difference in HRQL was more pronounced if patients were stratified according to the dynamics in FT3I following LT4 treatment. Thus, patients who showed a decrease in FT3I following treatment (n = 24) scored significantly worse for Anxiety (p = 0.032) and Emotional Susceptibility (p = 0.035) than patients with an increase in FT3I (n = 43). CONCLUSION Patients referred to an endocrine clinic with mild hypothyroidism had an impaired HRQL, compared to patients with more severe hypothyroidism. The most likely explanation of this finding is a lower threshold for seeking medical consultation and secondary care referral if HRQL is deteriorated. The dynamics in plasma FT3I following treatment may be more sensitive for such a discrimination in HRQL than a stratification according to the thyroid function tests at diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla B Larsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Kristian Hillert Winther
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Per Karkov Cramon
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Åse Krogh Rasmussen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mogens Groenvold
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Bue Bjorner
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev-Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Steen Joop Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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16
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Mehran L, Amouzegar A, Foroutan SM, Masoumi S, Tohidi M, Abdi H, Aghaei A, Saghafinia AE, Azizi F. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of the combined preparation of levothyroxine plus sustained- release liothyronine; a randomized controlled clinical trial. BMC Endocr Disord 2023; 23:182. [PMID: 37641049 PMCID: PMC10463362 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-023-01434-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the sustained-release liothyronine (SR-T3) is of paramount importance to design therapeutic regimens that are able to simulate normal thyroid hormone secretion while avoiding excursions in the T3 serum concentration. Here, we designed a parallel randomized clinical trial to characterize the PK and PD of the combined preparations of LT4 + SR-T3 in hypothyroid patients. METHODS Radioiodine-treated hypothyroid patients over 20 years of age, who attained euthyroidism with LT4 monotherapy were recruited from the Endocrine Clinic in Tehran. The patients were allocated to two intervention groups of group A: 9 µg SR-T3 plus 68.5 μg LT4 (ratio 1:7.5) and group B: 12 µg SR-T3 plus 60 µg LT4 (ratio 1:5), and a control group with LT4 monotherapy. For PD study, thyroid hormone profile was evaluated at 8 and 12 weeks intervals after intervention. To assess PK properties of SR-T3, T3-Cmax, T3-Tmax and AUC0 - 24 were calculated at the last visit. RESULTS Serum T4 and FT4 concentrations decreased in the intervention groups after 3 months. No significant difference was observed in serum T3 and FT3 concentrations before and after intervention. Serum T3/T4 ratio increased significantly in the intervention groups after intervention, with the highest increase in group B from 8.6 ± 2.03 at baseline to 12.2 ± 1.6. Comparison of trial groups at follow-up showed no differences in serum TSH, T4, T3 and T3/T4 concentrations among different groups. During 24 h, minimal variation in serum T3 concentration was observed in group B with mean ∆T3 of 15.4 ± 10.5 ng/dl. T3-Tmax, T3-Cmax and AUC0 - 24 in the combined sustained-release preparation were 4.38 ± 1.1 h., 101.0 ± 5.7 ng/dl and 2257 ± 110 ng.h/L, respectively which were significantly different from the control group. CONCLUSION Combined treatment with a single dose of SR-T3 plus LT4 is associated with increased serum T3/T4 ratio and minimal excursions in serum T3 concentration during 24 h; however, it was not significantly different from the control group. To incorporate sustained-release T3 in the management of hypothyroidism, a higher ratio of SR-T3 to LT4 than that of the previously recommended by the international organizations is suggested. IRCT REGISTRATION NUMBER IRCT20100922004794N13. https://www.irct.ir/search/result?query=IRCT20100922004794N13 . Registration date: 08/12/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Mehran
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Amouzegar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohsen Foroutan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Safdar Masoumi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Tohidi
- Prevention of Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hengameh Abdi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Aghaei
- Noor Research & Educational Institute (TAVAN), Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Hennessey JV. Levothyroxine Monotherapy: What Works Better for the Individual With Hypothyroidism? Endocr Pract 2023; 29:572-580. [PMID: 37419564 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE I explore objective data not supporting the addition of liothyronine (medication) (LT3) to levothyroxine (medication) (LT4) in patients with hypothyroidism. Accurate identification of patients with symptomatic (almost exclusively overt) hypothyroidism is important in evaluating clinical outcomes of therapies. Recent studies have documented that nearly a third of individuals who are offered thyroid hormone are euthyroid at the time of initiation. Additionally, others are clinically diagnosed without biochemical confirmation, so a sizable proportion of those started on LT4 are not hypothyroid. The assumption that nonhypothyroid symptoms will resolve with LT4 is problematic. The true underlying cause of these symptoms remains unidentified and untreated. METHODS In a narrative fashion I will review the positive predictive value of and correlation of symptoms consistent with hypothyroidism and confirmed hypothyroidism likely to favorably respond to thyroid hormone replacement. RESULTS Following a review of the reliability of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in predicting a euthyroid state, the correlation of circulating triiodothyronine (serum measurement) (T3) levels with symptoms and predictive value of T3 to forecast the outcome of adding LT3 to LT4 will be reviewed. The utility of striving for high, middle, or low TSH set points within the expected range to predict changes in clinical quality of life and the ability of blinded patients to sense subtle differences along this spectrum will be documented. In addition, the clinical impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the type 2 deiodinase gene will be reviewed. Finally, the overall satisfaction of selected patients with their thyroid hormone treatments will be outlined and preferences for T3-containing treatments from blinded studies will be summarized. CONCLUSION Basing thyroid hormone treatment decisions on patient symptoms likely results in missed diagnoses We should encourage primary care physicians to assess a differential diagnosis, exclude other diagnoses, and not assume a thyroid etiology when TSH is normal. Modifying treatment to a particular TSH target or adjusting based on a low T3 level does not seem to enhance patient outcomes. Finally, pending further trials of "symptomatic" participants, using sustained release LT3 to mimic normal physiology, and including monocarboxylate 10 transporter and Type 2 deiodinase polymorphisms and objective outcomes, I will continue to depend on therapy with LT4 monotherapy and seek alternative explanations for my patients' nonspecific symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- James V Hennessey
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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18
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Casula S, Ettleson MD, Bianco AC. Are We Restoring Thyroid Hormone Signaling in Levothyroxine-Treated Patients With Residual Symptoms of Hypothyroidism? Endocr Pract 2023; 29:581-588. [PMID: 37419565 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levothyroxine (LT4) at doses that maintain the serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels within the normal range constitutes the standard of care for the treatment of hypothyroidism. After a few months, this eliminates the signs and symptoms of overt hypothyroidism in the majority of patients, owing to the endogenous activation of thyroxine to triiodothyronine, the biologically active thyroid hormone. Still, a small percentage of the patients (10%-20%) exhibit residual symptoms, despite having normal serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. These symptoms include cognitive, mood, and metabolic deficits, with a significant impairment in psychological well-being and quality of life. OBJECTIVE To provide a summary of progress in the approach of patients with hypothyroidism that exhibit residual symptoms despite treatment. METHODS We reviewed the current literature and here we focused on the mechanisms leading to a deficiency of T3 in some LT4-treated patients, the role of residual thyroid tissue and the rationale for combination therapy with LT4 + liothyronine (LT3). RESULTS A score of clinical trials comparing therapy with LT4 versus LT4 + LT3 concluded that both are safe and equally effective (neither is superior); however, these trials failed to recruit a sufficiently large number of patients with residual symptoms. New clinical trials that considered LT4-treated symptomatic patients revealed that such patients benefit from and prefer therapy containing LT4 + LT3; desiccated thyroid extract has also been used with similar results. A practical approach to patients with residual symptoms and on initiation of combination therapy with LT4 + LT3 is provided. CONCLUSION A recent joint statement of the American, British, and European Thyroid Associations recommends that a trial with combination therapy be offered to patients with hypothyroidism that do not fully benefit from therapy with LT4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Casula
- Department of Endocrinology, Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, Florida
| | - Matthew D Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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19
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Ettleson MD, Prieto WH, Russo PST, de Sa J, Wan W, Laiteerapong N, Maciel RMB, Bianco AC. Serum Thyrotropin and Triiodothyronine Levels in Levothyroxine-treated Patients. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e258-e266. [PMID: 36515655 PMCID: PMC10413428 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Small adjustments in levothyroxine (LT4) dose do not appear to provide clinical benefit despite changes in thyrotropin (TSH) levels within the reference range. We hypothesize that the accompanying changes in serum total triiodothyronine (T3) levels do not reflect the magnitude of the changes in serum TSH. OBJECTIVE This work aims to characterize the relationships of serum free thyroxine (FT4) vs T3, FT4 vs TSH, and FT4 vs the T3/FT4 ratio. METHODS This cross-sectional, observational study comprised 9850 participants aged 18 years and older treated with LT4 from a large clinical database from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2019. Patients had been treated with LT4, subdivided by serum FT4 level. Main outcome measures included model fitting of the relationships between serum FT4 vs TSH, FT4 vs T3, and FT4 vs T3/FT4. Mean and median values of TSH, T3, and T3/FT4 were calculated. RESULTS The relationships T3 vs FT4 and TSH vs FT4 were both complex and best represented by distinct, segmented regression models. Increasing FT4 levels were linearly associated with T3 levels until an inflection point at an FT4 level of 0.7 ng/dL, after which a flattening of the slope was observed following a convex quadratic curve. In contrast, increasing FT4 levels were associated with steep declines in TSH following 2 negative sigmoid curves. The FT4 vs T3/FT4 relationship was fit to an asymptotic regression curve supporting less T4 to T3 activation at higher FT4 levels. CONCLUSION In LT4-treated patients, the relationships between serum FT4 vs TSH and FT4 vs T3 across a range of FT4 levels are disproportionate. As a result, dose changes in LT4 that robustly modify serum FT4 and TSH values may only minimally affect serum T3 levels and result in no significant clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
| | | | | | - Jose de Sa
- Fleury Group, Sao Paulo, SP 04344, Brazil
| | - Wen Wan
- Section of General Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
| | - Neda Laiteerapong
- Section of General Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
| | - Rui M B Maciel
- Fleury Group, Sao Paulo, SP 04344, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo SP 04039, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
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20
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Taylor PN, Lansdown A, Witczak J, Khan R, Rees A, Dayan CM, Okosieme O. Age-related variation in thyroid function - a narrative review highlighting important implications for research and clinical practice. Thyroid Res 2023; 16:7. [PMID: 37009883 PMCID: PMC10069079 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00149-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid hormones are key determinants of health and well-being. Normal thyroid function is defined according to the standard 95% confidence interval of the disease-free population. Such standard laboratory reference intervals are widely applied in research and clinical practice, irrespective of age. However, thyroid hormones vary with age and current reference intervals may not be appropriate across all age groups. In this review, we summarize the recent literature on age-related variation in thyroid function and discuss important implications of such variation for research and clinical practice. MAIN TEXT There is now substantial evidence that normal thyroid status changes with age throughout the course of life. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations are higher at the extremes of life and show a U-shaped longitudinal trend in iodine sufficient Caucasian populations. Free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels fall with age and appear to play a role in pubertal development, during which it shows a strong relationship with fat mass. Furthermore, the aging process exerts differential effects on the health consequences of thyroid hormone variations. Older individuals with declining thyroid function appear to have survival advantages compared to individuals with normal or high-normal thyroid function. In contrast younger or middle-aged individuals with low-normal thyroid function suffer an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes while those with high-normal function have adverse bone outcomes including osteoporosis and fractures. CONCLUSION Thyroid hormone reference intervals have differential effects across age groups. Current reference ranges could potentially lead to inappropriate treatment in older individuals but on the other hand could result in missed opportunities for risk factor modification in the younger and middle-aged groups. Further studies are now needed to determine the validity of age-appropriate reference intervals and to understand the impact of thyroid hormone variations in younger individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N Taylor
- Thyroid Research Group Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, C2 link corridor, UHW, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Andrew Lansdown
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Justyna Witczak
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rahim Khan
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Aled Rees
- Thyroid Research Group Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, C2 link corridor, UHW, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Colin M Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, C2 link corridor, UHW, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
| | - Onyebuchi Okosieme
- Thyroid Research Group Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, C2 link corridor, UHW, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
- Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
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21
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Perros P, Van Der Feltz-Cornelis C, Papini E, Nagy EV, Weetman AP, Hegedüs L. The enigma of persistent symptoms in hypothyroid patients treated with levothyroxine: A narrative review. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 98:461-468. [PMID: 33783849 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
A significant minority of patients with hypothyroidism report persistent symptoms despite achieving normal thyroid biochemistry after levothyroxine (L-T4) replacement. Four principal lines of thinking, which are not mutually exclusive, may explain this enigma. The 'low tissue liothyronine hypothesis' emphasizes the potential imperfections of L-T4 replacement therapy that may lead to hypothyroidism in some tissues such as the brain, while others (eg hypothalamus) are euthyroid. The 'Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders hypothesis' draws attention to an incidental coexistence of a diagnosis of Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders in patients with treated hypothyroidism. The 'autoimmune neuroinflammation hypothesis' highlights the potential consequences of inflammatory mediators due to thyroid autoimmunity (the commonest cause of hypothyroidism) on the brain. The 'comorbidities and psychosocial hypothesis' implicates a variety of physical and psychosocial factors that have been noted to be associated with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism, which may be primarily the cause of persistent complaints. Over the past twenty years, a great deal of time and effort has been expended pursuing the 'low tissue liothyronine hypothesis', which has failed to yield results that translate to patient benefits. This has skewed the balance in clinical practice, in favour of pursuing answers relating to L-T4 and liothyronine combination treatment, while the alternative explanations have been downplayed and potentially useful interventions have been given insufficient attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anthony P Weetman
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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22
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Jansen HI, Bult MM, Bisschop PH, Boelen A, Heijboer AC, Hillebrand JJ. Increased fT4 concentrations in patients using levothyroxine without complete suppression of TSH. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e220538. [PMID: 36762702 PMCID: PMC10083678 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction In our hospital, physicians noticed high free thyroxine (fT4) concentrations without complete suppression of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in blood samples of patients at the outpatient clinic, which appeared to occur more often following the introduction of a new fT4 immunoassay. This discordance may be explained by incorrect reference intervals, analytical issues, or patient-related factors. We aimed to establish the contribution of the possible factors involved. Methods Reference intervals of both fT4 immunoassays were re-evaluated using blood samples of healthy volunteers and the new immunoassay's performance was assessed using internal quality controls and external quality rounds. The frequency of discordant fT4 and TSH pairings obtained from laboratory requests were retrospectively analysed using a Delfia (n = 3174) and Cobas cohort (n = 3408). Last, a literature search assessed whether the time of blood draw and the time of levothyroxine (L-T4) ingestion may contribute to higher fT4 concentrations in L-T4 users. Results The original reference intervals of both fT4 immunoassays were confirmed and no evidence for analytical problems was found. The Delfia (n = 176, 5.5%) and Cobas cohorts (n = 295, 8.7%) showed comparable frequencies of discordance. Interestingly, 72-81% of the discordant results belonged to L-T4 users. Literature indicated the time of blood withdrawal of L-T4 users and, therefore, the time of L-T4 intake as possible explanations. Conclusions High fT4 without suppressed TSH concentrations can mainly be explained by L-T4 intake. Physicians and laboratory specialists should be aware of this phenomenon to avoid questioning the assay's performance or unnecessarily adapting the L-T4 dose in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heleen I Jansen
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marijn M Bult
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter H Bisschop
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anita Boelen
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke C Heijboer
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacquelien J Hillebrand
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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23
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Azizi F, Abdi H, Amouzegar A, Habibi Moeini AS. Long-term thionamide antithyroid treatment of Graves' disease. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 37:101631. [PMID: 35440398 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2022.101631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Thionamide antithyroid drugs (ATD) are the treatment of choice for Graves' hyperthyroidism. The major drawback of ATD treatment for 1-2 years is the relapse of hyperthyroidism in about 50% of patients. Recently, it has been shown that ATD treatment for more than five years is accompanied by long-term remission in majority of patients without additional major side effects in both adults and children. Compared to radioactive iodine therapy, long-term ATD results in more favorable outcomes. This review summarizes the evidence on long-term ATD therapy regarding the remission rate of hyperthyroidism, efficacy and safety, indications and mode of therapy in patients with hyperthyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hengameh Abdi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Amouzegar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Siamak Habibi Moeini
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Luongo C, De Stefano MA, Ambrosio R, Volpe F, Porcelli T, Golia V, Bellevicine C, Troncone G, Masone S, Damiano V, Matano E, Klain M, Schlumberger M, Salvatore D. Type 2 Deiodinase Thr92Ala Polymorphism and Aging Are Associated with a Decreased Pituitary Sensitivity to Thyroid Hormone. Thyroid 2023; 33:294-300. [PMID: 36680751 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background: The DIO2 Thr92Ala polymorphism (rs225014), which occurs in about 15-30% of Caucasian people, determines a less efficient type 2 deiodinase (D2) enzyme. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of DIO2 Thr92Ala polymorphism on the serum thyrotropin (TSH) levels in thyroidectomized patients with hypothyroidism and to evaluate whether TSH levels and aging could be related, at pituitary level, to D2 activity. Methods: This prospective study was performed on 145 thyroid cancer patients, treated with total thyroidectomy, and undergoing radioiodine treatment after 3 weeks of levothyroxine (LT4) withdrawal. A mouse model has been used to determine D2 protein and mRNA levels in pituitary during aging. Results: Genetic analysis identified DIO2 Thr92Ala polymorphism in 56% of participants: 64/145 (44%) patients were homozygous wild type (WT) (Thr/Thr), 64 (44%) heterozygous (Thr/Ala), and 17 (12%) homozygous mutant (Ala/Ala). A significant negative relationship was observed between aging and the rise in serum TSH levels during LT4 withdrawal. However, this negative correlation found in WT was reduced in heterozygous and lost in mutant homozygous patients (Thr/Thr r = -0.45, p = 0.0002, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.63 to -0.23; Ala/Thr r = -0.39, p = 0.0012, CI -0.60 to -0.67; and Ala/Ala r = -0.30, p = 0.2347; CI -0.70 to 0.20). Accordingly, when we compared the TSH measured in each patient to its theoretical value predicted from age, the TSH did not reach its putative target in 47% of WT patients, in 70% of Ala/Thr, and 76% of Ala/Ala carrying patients (p = 0.0036). This difference was lost in individuals older than 60 years, suggesting a decline of D2 associated with aging. The hypothesis that the pituitary D2 decreases with age was confirmed by the evidence that D2 mRNA and protein levels were lower in pituitary from old versus young mice. Conclusion: An age-related decline in TSH production in response to hypothyroidism was correlated with decreased D2 levels in pituitary. The presence of DIO2 homozygous Ala/Ala polymorphism was associated with a reduced level of TSH secretion in response to hypothyroidism, indicating a decreased pituitary sensitivity to serum thyroxine variation (Institutional Research Ethics board approval number no. 433/21).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Luongo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | | | - Raffaele Ambrosio
- Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Synlab, SDN, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Volpe
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Tommaso Porcelli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Golia
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bellevicine
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Troncone
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Masone
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Damiano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Elide Matano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Klain
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Martin Schlumberger
- Department of Endocrine Oncology, Gustave Roussy and University Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Domenico Salvatore
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
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25
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Jansen HI, Boelen A, Heijboer AC, Bruinstroop E, Fliers E. Hypothyroidism: The difficulty in attributing symptoms to their underlying cause. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1130661. [PMID: 36814580 PMCID: PMC9939761 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1130661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Common symptoms of overt hypothyroidism are non-specific and include fatigue, lethargy, and dry skin. Although the diagnosis is considered to be straightforward, no single symptom can be used to identify patients with overt hypothyroidism, while many patients with subclinical hypothyroidism are asymptomatic. A large population-based study on the spectrum of symptoms in subclinical hypothyroidism showed similar rates of thyroid disease-related symptoms compared with euthyroid subjects, while the TSH concentration had no impact on symptom score. Together, these findings make it challenging to attribute symptoms to their underlying cause. This is also true in the case of unexplained persistent symptoms in levothyroxine-treated patients. Although generally considered a life-long replacement therapy, successful thyroid hormone discontinuation resulting in euthyroidism has been reported in approximately one third of patients. Thus, we overtreat patients with (subclinical) hypothyroidism, highlighting the importance of reliable diagnostic criteria. The diagnostic process, including the implementation of robust TSH and FT4 reference intervals, is especially challenging in specific situations including aging, pregnancy, non-thyroidal illness, and central hypothyroidism. There is a clear need for improved adherence to current guidelines from scientific societies and for willingness to manage symptoms without a clear pathological correlate, especially in the case of mild TSH elevations. This review will highlight recent literature on this topic and offers some practice points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heleen I. Jansen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam University Medical (UMC) Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Heleen I. Jansen,
| | - Anita Boelen
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam University Medical (UMC) Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemieke C. Heijboer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Amsterdam University Medical (UMC) Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eveline Bruinstroop
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eric Fliers
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Azizi F, Saadat N, Takyar MA, Abdi H, Mehran L, Amouzegar A. Efficacy and Safety of Long-Term Methimazole versus Radioactive Iodine in the Treatment of Toxic Multinodular Goiter. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2022; 37:861-869. [PMID: 36415961 PMCID: PMC9816507 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2022.1476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGRUOUND This study compared the degree of sustained control of hyperthyroidism in patients with toxic multinodular goiter (TMNG) treated with long-term methimazole (LT-MMI) or radioactive iodine (RAI). METHODS In this clinical trial, 130 untreated patients with TMNG were randomized to either LT-MMI or RAI treatment. Both groups were followed for 108 to 148 months, with median follow-up durations of 120 and 132 months in the LT-MMI and RAI groups, respectively. Both groups of patients were followed every 1 to 3 months in the first year and every 6 months thereafter. RESULTS After excluding patients in whom the treatment modality was changed and those who were lost to follow-up, 53 patients in the LT-MMI group and 54 in the RAI group completed the study. At the end of the study period, 50 (96%) and 25 (46%) patients were euthyroid, and two (4%) and 25 (46%) were hypothyroid in LT-MMI and RAI groups, respectively. In the RAI group, four (8%) patients had subclinical hyperthyroidism. The mean time to euthyroidism was 4.3±1.3 months in LT-MMI patients and 16.3± 15.0 months in RAI recipients (P<0.001). Patients treated with LT-MMI spent 95.8%±5.9% of the 12-year study period in a euthyroid state, whereas this proportion was 72.4%±14.8% in the RAI-treated patients (P<0.001). No major treatment-related adverse events were observed in either group. CONCLUSION In patients with TMNG, LT-MMI therapy is superior to RAI treatment, as shown by the earlier achievement of euthyroidism and the longer duration of sustained normal serum thyrotropin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Saadat
- Prevention of Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mir Alireza Takyar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hengameh Abdi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Hengameh Abdi. Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19395-4763, Tehran, Iran Tel: +98-21-22432500, Fax: +98-21-22402463, E-mail:
| | - Ladan Mehran
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Amouzegar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding authors: Atieh Amouzegar. Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19395-4763, Tehran, Iran Tel: +98-21-22432500, Fax: +98-21-22402463 E-mail:
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27
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Saadat N, Azizi F, Abdi H, Amouzegar A. Treatment of post-radioactive iodine relapse of hyperthyroidism: comparison of long-term methimazole and radioactive iodine treatment. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1919-1924. [PMID: 35610532 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to compare the time to achieve euthyroidism and sustained control of hyperthyroidism after treatment with radioactive iodine (RAI) or long-term methimazole (LT-MMI) in patients with post-RAI relapsed hyperthyroidism. METHODS Sixty four patients with recurrence of hyperthyroidism after RAI treatment were randomly assigned to either RAI or LT-MMI treatment. Both groups were followed every 1-3 months in the first year and then every 6 months for a total of 60 months. RESULTS In RAI and LT-MMI groups, mean age was 49.0 ± 12.1 and 50.1 ± 14.6 years and time of relapse of hyperthyroidism after previous RAI treatment was 23.2 ± 18.8 and 20.8 ± 17.1 months, respectively. At the end of study, in the LT-MMI group, 31 (97%) and 1 (3%) were euthyroid and hypothyroid, respectively; in the RAI group, 8 (25%) patients were euthyroid, whereas 18 (56%), 3 (9.5%) and 3 (9.5%) had overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, respectively. Mean time to euthyroidism was 9.4 ± 5.0 months in the RAI group and 3.5 ± 2.8 months in the LT-MMI group (p < 0.001). Patients in the RAI group spent 77.7 ± 14.0 percent and those in the LT-MMI group spent 95.2 ± 5.9 percent of 60 months in the euthyroid state (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION In patients with post-RAI relapse of hyperthyroidism, LT-MMI treatment was superior to radioiodine because of faster achievement of euthyroidism and more sustained control of hyperthyroidism during 60 months of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Saadat
- Prevention of Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, 19395-4763, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - H Abdi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, 19395-4763, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - A Amouzegar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box, 19395-4763, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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28
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Jonklaas J. Restoration of euthyroidism with levothyroxine: implications of etiology of hypothyroidism and the degree of residual endogenous thyroid function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:934003. [PMID: 35966075 PMCID: PMC9363917 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.934003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
There are many thyroid-related factors that combine with non-thyroid-related factors in order to affect the patient response to treatment of hypothyroidism, in terms of their satisfaction with therapy. Some of the thyroid-derived factors include the etiology of the hypothyroidism and the amount of residual thyroid function that the patient retains. These two factors may be intertwined and affected by a third influence, the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies. The downstream consequences of the interactions between these three factors may influence both free thyroxine and free triiodothyronine levels, TSH concentrations, and various thyroid biomarkers. Evidence of the widespread importance of thyroid hormones can be inferred from the multiple genes that are regulated, with their regulation affecting multiple serum biomarkers. Thyroid biomarkers may extend from various well-known serum markers such as lipids and sex hormone-binding globulin to serum levels of thyroid hormone metabolites. Moreover, the interplay between thyroid hormones and biomarkers and their relative ratios may be different depending on the hypothyroidism etiology and degree of residual thyroid function. The ultimate significance of these relationships and their effect on determining patient-reported outcomes, quality of life, and patient satisfaction is, as yet, poorly understood. However, identification of better biomarkers of thyroid function would advance the field. These biomarkers could be studied and correlated with patient-reported outcomes in future prospective studies comparing the impact of various thyroid hormone therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
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Abstract
Background: Some levothyroxine (LT4)-treated hypothyroid patients report a constellation of persistent and distressing cognitive symptoms that has been termed brain fog. This narrative review focuses on attempts to define and measure hypothyroid-associated brain fog, summarize possible etiologies and contributing factors, present treatment options, and propose avenues for future research. Methods: Published literature was reviewed to summarize available information on patient-reported symptoms associated with brain fog in hypothyroidism, as well as objective evidence of impairment based on neurocognitive testing and functional imaging studies. Given the limited information specific for hypothyroid-associated brain fog, relevant data from other medical conditions associated with brain fog were also reviewed and incorporated into recommendations for clinical care and future research areas. Results: Hypothyroid-associated brain fog has not been well defined or quantitated, and the underlying pathophysiology is unclear. Symptoms vary among patients but commonly include fatigue, depressed mood, and cognitive difficulties in the areas of memory and executive function. Symptoms often predate the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, and the magnitude of cognitive impairment can range from mild to severe. Regardless of severity, these symptoms are associated with impaired quality of life and cause dissatisfaction with treatment, so often lead to requests for alternate therapies. Disease-specific and psychological factors impact the experience of brain fog in complex ways, including potential limitations in LT4 monotherapy, self-knowledge of a disease state, and expectations for therapeutic effects. Conclusions: Brain fog is a variable symptom complex in people with hypothyroidism, causing significant distress and diminished quality of life. In the absence of proven therapies, individualized treatment plans are recommended, which incorporate thyroid-specific, general medical, and psychosocial approaches. In particular, cognitive rehabilitation is an underutilized technique that is beneficial in other medical conditions associated with brain fog and could improve symptoms in hypothyroid people. The limitations in our current knowledge and questions presented throughout this review highlight a major need for clinical research in this understudied area. Future research should include attention to standardization of survey instruments to quantitate brain fog in hypothyroid people, as well as rigorously designed intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary H. Samuels
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Address correspondence to: Mary H. Samuels, MD, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 Sam Jackson Park Road, CR107, Portland, OR 97221, USA
| | - Lori J. Bernstein
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Salvatore D, Porcelli T, Ettleson MD, Bianco AC. The relevance of T 3 in the management of hypothyroidism. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2022; 10:366-372. [PMID: 35240052 PMCID: PMC9987447 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(22)00004-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Levothyroxine monotherapy has been the standard of care for treatment of hypothyroidism for more than 40 years. However, patients treated with levothyroxine have relatively lower serum tri-iodothyronine (T3) concentrations than the general population, and symptoms of hypothyroidism persist for some patients despite normalisation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations. The understanding that maintenance of normal T3 concentrations is the priority for the thyroid axis has redirected the clinical focus to serum T3 concentrations in patients with hypothyroidism. This Personal View explores whether it is currently feasible to identify patients who could be considered for liothyronine supplementation in combination with levothyroxine. Genetic profiling stands out as a potential future tool to identify patients who do not respond well to levothyroxine due to suboptimal peripheral thyroxine (T4) activation. Moreover, new slow-release liothyronine preparations are being developed to be trialled in these symptomatic patients, in an attempt to restore T3 concentrations and provide conclusive results for the use of T4 plus T3 combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Salvatore
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Porcelli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Matthew D Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, IL, USA
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, IL, USA
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Abstract
Hypothyroidism is a common endocrinopathy, and levothyroxine is frequently prescribed. Despite the basic tenets of initiating and adjusting levothyroxine being agreed on, there are many nuances and complexities to consistently maintaining euthyroidism. Understanding the impact of patient weight and residual thyroid function on initial levothyroxine dosage and consideration of age, comorbidities, thyrotropin goal, life stage, and quality of life as levothyroxine is adjusted can be challenging and continually evolving. Because levothyroxine is a lifelong medication, it is important to avoid risks from periods of overtreatment or undertreatment. For the subset of patients not restored to baseline health with levothyroxine, causes arising from all aspects of the patient's life (coexistent medical conditions, stressors, lifestyle, psychosocial factors) should be broadly considered. If such factors do not appear to be contributing, and biochemical euthyroidism has been successfully maintained, there may be benefit to a trial of combination therapy with levothyroxine and liothyronine. This is not supported by the majority of randomized clinical trials, but may be supported by other studies providing lower-quality evidence and by animal studies. Given this discrepancy, it is important that any trial of combination therapy be continued only as long as a patient benefit is being enjoyed. Monitoring for adverse effects, particularly in older or frail individuals, is necessary and combination therapy should not be used during pregnancy. A sustained-release liothyronine preparation has completed phase 1 testing and may soon be available for better designed and powered studies assessing whether combination therapy provides superior therapy for hypothyroidism.
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Ross DS. Treating hypothyroidism is not always easy: When to treat subclinical hypothyroidism, TSH goals in the elderly, and alternatives to levothyroxine monotherapy. J Intern Med 2022; 291:128-140. [PMID: 34766382 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The majority of patients with hypothyroidism feel better when levothyroxine treatment restores thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations to normal. Increasingly, a significant minority of patients remain symptomatic and are dissatisfied with their treatment. Overzealous treatment of symptomatic patients with subclinical hypothyroidism may contribute to dissatisfaction among hypothyroidism patients, as potential hypothyroid symptoms in patients with minimal hypothyroidism rarely respond to treatment. Thyroid hormone prescriptions have increased by 30% in the United States in the last decade. The diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism should be confirmed by repeat thyroid function tests ideally obtained at least 2 months later, as 62% of elevated TSH levels may revert to normal spontaneously. Generally, treatment is not necessary unless the TSH exceeds 7.0-10 mIU/L. In double-blinded randomized controlled trials, treatment does not improve symptoms or cognitive function if the TSH is less than 10 mIU/L. While cardiovascular events may be reduced in patients under age 65 with subclinical hypothyroidism who are treated with levothyroxine, treatment may be harmful in elderly patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. TSH goals are age dependent, with a 97.5 percentile (upper limit of normal) of 3.6 mIU/L for patients under age 40, and 7.5 mIU/L for patients over age 80. In some hypothyroid patients who are dissatisfied with treatment, especially those with a polymorphism in type 2 deiodinase, combined treatment with levothyroxine and liothyronine may be preferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas S Ross
- Endocrine Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Das D, Banerjee A, Jena AB, Duttaroy AK, Pathak S. Essentiality, relevance, and efficacy of adjuvant/combinational therapy in the management of thyroid dysfunctions. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 146:112613. [PMID: 35062076 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid dysfunction is the most prevalent endocrine disorder worldwide having an epidemiology of 11% in Indians, 4.6% in the United Kingdom, and 2% in the United States of America among the overall population. The common thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer. This review briefly elaborates the molecular regulation and mechanism of thyroid hormone, and its associated thyroid disorders. The thyroid hormones regulate critical biochemical functions in brain development and function. Hypothyroidism is mainly associated with dysregulation of cytokines, increased ROS production, and altered signal transduction in major regions of the brain. In addition, it is associated with reduced antioxidant capacity and increased oxidative stress in humans. Though 70% of thyroid disorders are caused by heredity, environmental factors have a significant influence in developing autoimmune thyroid disorders in people who are predisposed to them. This drives us to understand the relationship between environmental factors and thyroid dysregulated disorders. The treatment option for the thyroid disorder includes antithyroid medications, receiving radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery at a critical stage. However, antithyroid drugs are not typically used long-term in thyroid disease due to the high recurrence rate. Adjuvant treatment of antioxidants can produce better outcomes with anti-thyroid drug treatment. Thus, Adjuvant therapy has been proven as an effective strategy for managing thyroid dysfunction, herbal remedies can be used to treat thyroid dysfunction in the future, which in turn can reduce the prevalence of thyroid disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diptimayee Das
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Chennai 603103, India
| | - Antara Banerjee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Chennai, India
| | | | - Asim K Duttaroy
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway.
| | - Surajit Pathak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Chennai, India.
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Dumitrescu AM, Hanlon EC, Arosemena M, Duchon O, Ettleson M, Giurcanu M, Bianco AC. Extended Absorption of Liothyronine from Poly-Zinc-Liothyronine: Results from a Phase 1, Double-Blind, Randomized, and Controlled Study in Humans. Thyroid 2022; 32:196-205. [PMID: 34641706 PMCID: PMC8861912 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: L-triiodothyronine (LT3) has been increasingly used in combination with levothyroxine in the treatment of hypothyroidism. A metal coordinated form of LT3, known as poly-zinc-liothyronine (PZL), avoided in rats the typical triiodothyronine (T3) peak seen after oral administration of LT3. Objectives: To evaluate in healthy volunteers (i) the pharmacokinetics (PK) of PZL-derived T3 after a single dose, (ii) the pharmacodynamics of PZL-derived T3, (iii) incidence of adverse events, and (iv) exploratory analysis of the sleep patterns after LT3, PZL, or placebo (PB) administration. Methods: Twelve healthy volunteers 18-50 years of age were recruited for a Phase 1, double-blind, randomized, single-dose PB-controlled, crossover study to compare PZL against LT3 or PB. Subjects were admitted three separate times to receive a randomly assigned capsule containing PB, 50 μg LT3, or 50 μg PZL, and were observed for 48 hours. A 2-week washout period separated each admission. Results: LT3-derived serum T3 levels exhibited the expected profile, with a Tmax at 2 hours and return to basal levels by 24-36 hours. PZL-derived serum T3 levels exhibited ∼30% lower Cmax that was 1 hour delayed and extended into a plateau that lasted up to 6 hours. This was followed by a lower but much longer plateau; by 24 hours serum T3 levels still exceeded ½ of Cmax. Thyrotropin levels were similarly reduced in both groups. Conclusion: PZL possesses the necessary properties to achieve a much improved T3 PK. PZL is on track to provide hypothyroid patients with stable levels of serum T3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra M. Dumitrescu
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Address correspondence to: Alexandra M. Dumitrescu, MD, PhD, Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC1027, Room M267, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Erin C. Hanlon
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Marilyn Arosemena
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Olga Duchon
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mihai Giurcanu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Antonio C. Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Antonio C. Bianco, MD, PhD, Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC1027, Room M267, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Payer J, Jackuliak P, Kužma M, Džupon M, Vaňuga P. Supplementation with myo-inositol and Selenium improves the clinical conditions and biochemical features of women with or at risk for subclinical hypothyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1067029. [PMID: 36465640 PMCID: PMC9709133 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1067029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study aims to evaluate the effect of myo-Inositol plus Selenium supplementation in patients affected by subclinical hypothyroidism. METHODS One hundred and forty-eight patients were included in the study from 8 different centers of Slovakia, and treated for 6 months with a daily dose of 600 mg myo-Ins plus 83 mcg Se. The patients included at the enrollment were women of reproductive age (18-50), who exhibit values of TSH in the range 2.5-5 mU/l and positivity to antibodies TPO-Ab/TG-Ab, or otherwise values of TSH in the range 5-10 mU/l both with and without positivity to antibodies TPO-Ab/TG-Ab. RESULTS Patients affected by subclinical hypothyroidism exhibited a significant improvement of their condition when treated for 6 months with a combination of myo-Inositol and Selenium. The TSH values significantly ameliorated along with the index of autoimmunity and the thyroid status. In a sub-class of patients, the auto-antibody titer decreased after myo-inositol + Selenium administration. The treatment also induces a regularization of the menstrual cycle and a reduction of the cholesterol in the patients enrolled for the study. Furthermore, a significant improvement is observed in the perception of the symptoms associated with subclinical hypothyroidism over the treatment period. CONCLUSION A dietary supplementation with of myo-Inositol and Selenium in the treatment of patients affected by subclinical hypothyroidism exhibits a beneficial role in the recovery of TSH values, in the improvement of the symptoms associated to this condition and in the maintenance of the thyroid functions.The trial was approved by the Ethical Committee from National Institute of Endocrinology and Diabetology of Lubochna, Slovakia, date 18.12.2018, registration number: 3124/2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juraj Payer
- Comenius University Faculty of Medicine, 5th Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Juraj Payer,
| | - Peter Jackuliak
- Comenius University Faculty of Medicine, 5th Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Martin Kužma
- Comenius University Faculty of Medicine, 5th Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Matúš Džupon
- Medical Department, Exeltis, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Peter Vaňuga
- Comenius University Faculty of Medicine, 5th Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
- National Institute of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Lubochna, Slovakia
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Ettleson MD, Papaleontiou M. Evaluating health outcomes in the treatment of hypothyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1026262. [PMID: 36329885 PMCID: PMC9623066 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1026262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical hypothyroidism is defined by the inadequate production of thyroid hormone from the thyroid gland to maintain normal organ system functions. For nearly all patients with clinical hypothyroidism, lifelong treatment with thyroid hormone replacement is required. The primary goal of treatment is to provide the appropriate daily dose of thyroid hormone to restore normal thyroid function for each individual patient. In current clinical practice, normalization of thyrotropin (TSH) level is the primary measure of effectiveness of treatment, however the use of a single biomarker to define adequate thyroid hormone replacement is being reevaluated. The assessment of clinical health outcomes and patient-reported outcomes (PROs), often within the context of intensity of treatment as defined by thyroid function tests (i.e., undertreatment, appropriate treatment, or overtreatment), may play a role in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the prominent health outcomes literature in patients with treated hypothyroidism. To date, overall mortality, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, bone health and cognitive function have been evaluated as endpoints in clinical outcomes studies in patients with treated hypothyroidism. More recent investigations have sought to establish the relationships between these end results and thyroid function during the treatment course. In addition to clinical event outcomes, patient-reported quality of life (QoL) has also been considered in the assessment of adequacy of hypothyroidism treatment. From a health care quality perspective, treatment of hypothyroidism should be evaluated not just on its effectiveness for the individual patients but also to the extent to which patients of different sociodemographic groups are treated equally. Ultimately, more research is needed to explore differences in health outcomes between different sociodemographic groups with hypothyroidism. Future prospective studies of treated hypothyroidism that integrate biochemical testing, PROs, and end result clinical outcomes could provide a more complete picture into the effectiveness of treatment of hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Ettleson
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Matthew D. Ettleson,
| | - Maria Papaleontiou
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes and Institute of Gerontology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Salas-Lucia F, Bianco AC. T3 levels and thyroid hormone signaling. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1044691. [PMID: 36387853 PMCID: PMC9646642 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1044691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical availability of tissue-specific biomarkers of thyroid hormone (TH) action constitutes a "holy grail" for the field. Scientists have investigated several TH-dependent markers, including the tissue content of triiodothyronine (T3)-the active form of TH. The study of animal models and humans indicates that the T3 content varies among different tissues, mostly due to the presence of low-affinity, high-capacity cytoplasmic T3 binding proteins. Nonetheless, given that T3 levels in the plasma and tissues are in equilibrium, T3 signaling is defined by the intracellular free T3 levels. The available techniques to assess tissue T3 are invasive and not clinically applicable. However, the tracer kinetic studies revealed that serum T3 levels can accurately predict tissue T3 content and T3 signaling in most tissues, except for the brain and pituitary gland. This is true not only for normal individuals but also for patients with hypo or hyperthyroidism-but not for patients with non-thyroidal illness syndrome. Given this direct relationship between serum and tissue T3 contents and T3 signaling in most tissues, clinicians managing patients with hypothyroidism could refocus attention on monitoring serum T3 levels. Future clinical trials should aim at correlating clinical outcomes with serum T3 levels.
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Шепелькевич АП, Дыдышко ЮВ, Юреня ЕB, Лобашова ВЛ, Аттанасио Р, Хегедюс Л, Надь Э, Негро Р, Папини Э, Перрос П. [Features of the use of synthetic analogues of thyroid hormones: а 2020 THESIS* questionnaire survey of members of the Belarusian Public Medical Association of Endocrinology and Metabolism]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2021; 68:18-26. [PMID: 35262294 PMCID: PMC9112860 DOI: 10.14341/probl12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is levothyroxine (LT4), which in the Republic of Belarus is available in tablet form whereas liothyronine (LT3) is not registered, but patients can purchase them on their own abroad. AIM This study aimed to investigate Belarusian endocrinologists' attitude of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online survey was conducted, for which members of the Belarusian Medical Association of Endocrinology and Metabolism were invited by posting information in the group chat and by e-mail. The research period was from October 1 to December 26, 2020. 210 questionnaires were received, 146 of which were used. RESULTS The majority of participants, 145 (99.3%), indicated that they were using LT4 as the first-choice drug for the treatment hypothyroidism. Sixty-one (41.8%) doctors answered that LT3 + LT4 combination likely can be used in patients with long-term untreated hypothyroidism and 15 (10.3%) - in patients with persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism, despite biochemical euthyroidism on therapy LT4. Over half of the respondents 84 (57.5%) answered that thyroid hormone therapy was never indicated for euthyroid patients, but 50 (34.2%) would consider it for female infertility with high level of thyroid antibodies and 36 (24.7%) for simple goiter growing over time. In various conditions that could interfere with absorption of LT4, most responding Belarusian endocrinologists do not expect a significant difference with different formulations (tablets+"I do not expect major changes in different forms" vs. "soft gel capsules"+"liquid solution"; p <0.001). Persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism on the background of LT4 replacement therapy with the achievement of the target TSH can mainly be caused by psychosocial factors, concomitant diseases, unrealistic patient expectations, chronic fatigue syndrome, and the burden of chronic disease. CONCLUSION The method of choice of Belarusian endocrinologists in the treatment of hypothyroidism is LT4 replacement therapy, but the appointment of LT4 + LT3 combination therapy can be considered in certain clinical situations. As a rule, endocrinologists do not prescribe LT4 in patients with euthyroidism and do not expect a significant difference when using other forms of levothyroxine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ю. В. Дыдышко
- Белорусский государственный медицинский университет;
Республиканский центр медицинской реабилитации и бальнеолечения
| | - Е. B. Юреня
- Минский городской клинический эндокринологический центр
| | - В. Л. Лобашова
- Республиканский центр медицинской реабилитации и бальнеолечения
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Shakir MKM, Brooks DI, McAninch EA, Fonseca TL, Mai VQ, Bianco AC, Hoang TD. Comparative Effectiveness of Levothyroxine, Desiccated Thyroid Extract, and Levothyroxine+Liothyronine in Hypothyroidism. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e4400-e4413. [PMID: 34185829 PMCID: PMC8530721 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies comparing levothyroxine (LT4) therapy with LT4 + liothyronine (LT3) or desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) did not detect consistent superiority of either treatment. Here, we investigated these therapies, focusing on the whole group of LT4-treated hypothyroid patients, while also exploring the most symptomatic patients. METHODOLOGY Prospective, randomized, double-blind, crossover study of 75 hypothyroid patients randomly allocated to 1 of 3 treatment arms, LT4, LT4 + LT3, and DTE, for 22 weeks. The primary outcomes were posttreatment scores on the 36-point thyroid symptom questionnaire (TSQ-36), 12-point quality of life general health questionnaire (GHQ-12), the Wechsler memory scale-version IV (VMS-IV), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Secondary endpoints included treatment preference, biochemical and metabolic parameters, etiology of hypothyroidism, and Thr92Ala-DIO2 gene polymorphism. Analyses were performed with a linear mixed model using subject as a random factor and group as a fixed effect. RESULTS Serum TSH remained within reference range across all treatment arms. There were no differences for primary and secondary outcomes, except for a minor increase in heart rate caused by DTE. Treatment preference was not different and there were no interferences of the etiology of hypothyroidism or Thr92Ala-DIO2 gene polymorphism in the outcomes. Subgroup analyses of the 1/3 most symptomatic patients on LT4 revealed strong preference for treatment containing T3, which improved performance on TSQ-36, GHQ-12, BDI, and visual memory index (VMS-IV component). CONCLUSIONS As a group, outcomes were similar among hypothyroid patients taking DTE vs LT4 + T3 vs LT4. However, those patients that were most symptomatic on LT4 preferred and responded positively to therapy with LT4 + LT3 or DTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed K M Shakir
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889-5600, USA
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Daniel I Brooks
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889-5600, USA
| | - Elizabeth A McAninch
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Tatiana L Fonseca
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Vinh Q Mai
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889-5600, USA
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Thanh D Hoang
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889-5600, USA
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Physical Activity in Women With Hypothyroidism on Thyroid Hormone Therapy: Associated Factors and Perceived Barriers and Benefits. J Phys Act Health 2021; 18:1383-1392. [PMID: 34627125 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2021-0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to analyze factors associated with physical activity (PA) and to identify perceived barriers and benefits of PA among patients with hypothyroidism on thyroid hormone therapy. METHODS This survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted among members of the Dutch thyroid patient organization. Self-reported data on respondents' PA levels and demographic, clinical, and physical health variables were collected. Moreover, perceived barriers and benefits to PA were identified. Respondents were categorized as physically active when meeting the recommended Dutch PA guidelines and physically inactive otherwise. To compare physically active and inactive respondents, potential confounders were entered into univariate analyses. Factors showing significant correlations (P < .20) were added to a multivariate model to determine the associated factors of PA. RESULTS About 1724 female respondents (mean age 53.0 [11.6] y) were included; 16.1% reported meeting the PA recommendations. Multivariate analysis showed that factors associated with PA included levothyroxine/liothyronine therapy, comorbidities, self-perceived physical fitness, and diminished physical endurance. Overall, physically related barriers to PA were rated highest. CONCLUSIONS The vast majority of treated hypothyroid respondents are physically inactive and experience long-term exercise intolerance. Considering the health implications of physical inactivity, promotion of regular PA is of key importance in this population.
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Wiersinga WM. T4+T3 Combination Therapy: An Unsolved Problem of Increasing Magnitude and Complexity. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2021; 36:938-951. [PMID: 34587734 PMCID: PMC8566135 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2021.501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroxine (T4)+triiodothyronine (T3) combination therapy can be considered in case of persistent symptoms despite normal serum thyroid stimulating hormone in levothyroxine (LT4)-treated hypothyroid patients. Combination therapy has gained popularity in the last two decades, especially in countries with a relatively high gross domestic product. The prevalence of persistent symptoms has also increased; most frequent are complaints about energy levels and fatigue (80% to 90%), weight management (70% to 75%), memory (60% to 80%), and mood (40% to 50%). Pathophysiological explanations for persistent problems are unrealistic patient expectations, comorbidities, somatic symptoms, related disorders (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [DSM-5]), autoimmune neuroinflammation, and low tissue T3. There is fair circumstantial evidence for the latter cause (tissue and specifically brain T3 content is normalized by T4+T3, not by T4 alone), but the other causes are viewed as more relevant in current practice. This might be related to the 'hype' that has emerged surrounding T4+T3 therapy. Although more and better-designed trials are needed to validate the efficacy of T4+T3 combination, the management of persistent symptoms should also be directed towards alternative causes. Improving the doctor-patient relationship and including more and better information is crucial. For example, dissatisfaction with the outcomes of T4 treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism can be anticipated as recent trials have demonstrated that LT4 is hardly effective in improving symptoms associated with subclinical hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmar M Wiersinga
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Idrees T, Bianco AC. Letter to the Editor from Idrees and Bianco: "Treatment of Thyroid Dysfunction and Serum Lipids: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis". J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e3785-e3786. [PMID: 33837396 PMCID: PMC9633326 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thaer Idrees
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Idrees T, Prieto WH, Casula S, Ajith A, Ettleson M, Narchi FAA, Russo PST, Fernandes F, Johnson J, Mayampurath A, Maciel RMB, Bianco AC. Use of Statins Among Patients Taking Levothyroxine: an Observational Drug Utilization Study Across Sites. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab038. [PMID: 34141994 PMCID: PMC8204793 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Treatment with levothyroxine (LT4) that normalize serum thyrotropin (TSH) is expected to restore lipid metabolism. OBJECTIVE To assess statin utilization in LT4-treated patients through an observational drug utilization study. METHODS Three sites were involved: (1) 10 723 outpatients placed on LT4 during 2006-2019 identified from the Clinical Research Data Warehouse of the University of Chicago; (2) ~1.4 million LT4 prescriptions prepared by primary care physicians during January-December 2018, identified from the IQVIA™ database of medical prescriptions in Brazil; (30 ~5.4 million patient interviews during 2009-2019, including ~0.32 million patients on LT4, identified from the Fleury Group database in Brazil. RESULTS On site 1, initiation of therapy with LT4 increased the frequency of statin utilization (19.1% vs 24.6%), which occurred ~1.5 years later (median 76 weeks) and, among those patients that were on statins, increased intensity of treatment by 33%, despite normalization of serum TSH levels; on site 2, after matching for sex and age, the frequency of statins prescription was higher for those patients using LT4: females, 2.1 vs 3.4% (odds ratio [OR] 1.656 [1.639-1.673]); males, 3.1 vs 4.4% (OR 1.435 [1.409-1.462]); and, on site 3, after matching for sex and age, the frequency of statin utilization was higher in those patients using LT4: females, 10 vs 18% (OR 2.02 [2.00-2.04]); males, 15 vs 25% (OR 1.92 [1.88-1.96]); all P values were <.0001. CONCLUSION Prescription and utilization of statins were higher in patients taking LT4. The reasons for this association should be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaer Idrees
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | | | - Sabina Casula
- Department of Endocrinology, Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Aswathy Ajith
- Center for Research Informatics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Matthew Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | | | | | | | - Julie Johnson
- Center for Research Informatics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Anoop Mayampurath
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rui M B Maciel
- Fleury Group, Sao Paulo, SP 04344, Brazil
- Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP 04039, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Lankhaar JAC, Kemler E, Hofstetter H, Collard DCM, Zelissen PMJ, Stubbe JH, Backx FJG. Physical activity, sports participation and exercise-related constraints in adult women with primary hypothyroidism treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. J Sports Sci 2021; 39:2493-2502. [PMID: 34165042 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1940696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Awareness of physical activity (PA) constraints in patients with primary hypothyroidism on thyroid hormone replacement therapy (THR) is important. Hence, this cross-sectional matched case-control study aimed to determine PA and sports participation (SP) in patients with hypothyroidism on THR in comparison to control subjects. Accordingly, survey questions were selected from the National Survey on Injuries and Physical Activity in the Netherlands (IPAN), supplemented with questions related to self-reported clinical characteristics and exercise-related constraints (ERC) of patients. In total, 1,724 female patients (mean age 53.0 years ±11.6) and 1,802 controls (mean age 52.6 ± 13.2) were included. Compared to controls, patients were less likely to comply with the moderate-intensity PA guideline (OR 0.70; 95% CI: 0.611-0.803), although patients were more actively participating in sports (OR 1.40; 95% CI: 1.156-1.706). Two-thirds of patients reported that hypothyroidism was limiting their PA performance. These limitations were more pronounced in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) than in patients with hypothyroidism from other aetiology (OR 1.93; 95% CI: 1.518-2.457), representing disease-specific exercise intolerance. In order to establish effective intervention programmes to encourage regular PA in hypothyroid patients on THR with exercise intolerance, further research is warranted to better understand PA barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette A C Lankhaar
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Kemler
- Sports Injury Prevention, The Dutch Consumer Safety Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hedwig Hofstetter
- Department of Child Health, TNO (Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Dorine C M Collard
- Sport Research for Policy and Society, Mulier Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre M J Zelissen
- Department of Internal Medicine & Endocrinology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Janine H Stubbe
- Codarts, University of the Arts, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,PErforming Artist and Athlete Research Lab (PEARL), Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department General Practice, Erasmus MC Medical University Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J G Backx
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sport, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Tsanava IA, Bulgakova SV, Melikova AV. Hypothyrosis syndrome: role of triodthyronine in diagnostics and combination therapy (review of literature). Klin Lab Diagn 2021; 66:261-265. [PMID: 34047510 DOI: 10.51620/0869-2084-2021-66-5-261-265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism syndrome is one of the most common pathologies of the endocrine system. Assessment of euthyroid status can not always be carried out according to the TSH indicator. In a number of patients with normal TSH levels and a clinical picture of hypothyroidism, the serum T3 concentration is determined at the lower limit of the norm or below it with a high content of free T4 in the blood. In world practice, positive experience has been accumulated in the combined use of preparations of sodium levothyroxine and liothyronine, a synthetic form of exogenous triiodothyronine. A number of studies have noted the advantages of using combination therapy for hypothyroidism over levothyroxine monotherapy in certain groups of patients. Possible reasons for the ineffectiveness of standard treatment for hypothyroidism are described.
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Glavin R, Ness RO, Nguyen A. Hypothyroidism - A Causal Approach to Testing Assumptions against Empirical Results. AMIA JOINT SUMMITS ON TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE PROCEEDINGS. AMIA JOINT SUMMITS ON TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 2021:257-266. [PMID: 34457140 PMCID: PMC8378658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is a controversy in the diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism. We propose the disagreement is fueled by statistical paradoxes, and sampling biases that provide different perspectives depending upon the sample selection criteria. The statistical inconsistencies become more apparent when viewed using a causal lens. Foundational hypothyroid research does not reflect the current Levothyroxine treated population. Exploration of empirical data demonstrates an apparent breakdown of the T4 to T3 causal pathway in the treated population. This use case demonstrates the difficulty of translating controlled research into clinical practices for patients with multiple comorbid conditions. We make the case for redundancy in data collection, ongoing attempts to falsify current assumptions and the need for causal approaches to validate the results of controlled research in clinical settings, in order to avoid confirmation bias from statistically insufficient biometrics.
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Planck T, Hedberg F, Calissendorff J, Nilsson A. Liothyronine Use in Hypothyroidism and its Effects on Cancer and Mortality. Thyroid 2021; 31:732-739. [PMID: 33040688 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2020.0388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: The prescription of liothyronine (LT3) to treat hypothyroidism is increasing worldwide; however, the long-term safety of LT3 use has yet to be determined. Previous studies have suggested a possible association between LT3 use and breast cancer. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of LT3 use on cancer incidence and mortality. Methods: Our sample included the full adult population of individuals living in Sweden with at least three purchases of thyroid hormone therapy between July 2005 and December 2017. Individual-level data on drug purchases were linked to registry data on cancer incidence and mortality. There were 575,461 individuals with at least three purchases, of which 11,147 had made at least three purchases of LT3, including combinations of levothyroxine (LT4) and LT3. Individuals were followed for a median follow-up time of 8.1 years. We applied Cox regression with a time-varying exposure variable, comparing LT3 users (individuals with at least three cumulative purchases of LT3) with LT4-only users (the rest). Outcomes included breast cancer incidence, any cancer incidence, all-cause mortality, any cancer mortality, and breast cancer mortality. We adjusted for age, sex, previous thyroid cancer, previous other cancer, use of antithyroid preparations, use of sex hormones, and dose in multivariate analyses. Results: Multivariate analyses produced a hazard ratio of 0.93 (95% confidence interval [0.75-1.15]) for breast cancer incidence (only females), 0.97 (0.87-1.08) for any cancer incidence, 0.69 (0.61-0.77) for all-cause mortality, 0.78 (0.62-0.98) for any cancer mortality, and 0.91 (0.50-1.66) for breast cancer mortality (only females). Conclusions: In this large, Swedish, long-term registry-based study, the use of LT3 did not lead to increased breast cancer incidence, any cancer incidence, all-cause mortality, any cancer mortality, or breast cancer mortality compared with LT4 use. Somewhat surprisingly, there was evidence of lower mortality in LT3 users in models adjusting for dose, potentially an artifact of underlying associations between dose and health status/diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Planck
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Fredric Hedberg
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Calissendorff
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anton Nilsson
- EPI@LUND, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Neves JS, Fontes-Carvalho R, Borges-Canha M, Leite AR, Martins S, Oliveira A, Guimarães JT, Carvalho D, Leite-Moreira A, Azevedo A. Thyroid Hormones within the Normal Range and Cardiac Function in the General Population: The EPIPorto Study. Eur Thyroid J 2021; 10:150-160. [PMID: 33981619 PMCID: PMC8077596 DOI: 10.1159/000508407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are associated with marked changes in cardiac structure and function. However, the association of thyroid function within the normal range with cardiac structure and function in the general population remains uncertain. METHODS Eight hundred thirty-five subjects aged ≥45 years from the EPIPorto cohort (evaluation between 2006 and 2008) were cross-sectionally analyzed. We excluded participants with TSH, free T4 (FT4), or free T3 (FT3) outside of the reference range or with self-reported cardiovascular or thyroid disease. Cardiac structure and function were evaluated by echocardiography. We used linear regression models unadjusted and adjusted for sex and age (model 1), and sex, age, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, and smoking (model 2). Nonlinear associations were assessed using restricted cubic splines. RESULTS The mean age was 61.5 years (SD 10.5); 61.1% of the patients were women. In the adjusted model 2, heart rate was positively associated with FT3; diastolic blood pressure was positively associated with TSH; LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were inversely associated with TSH, and ejection fraction was nonlinearly associated with FT3, with higher ejection fractions near the limits of the reference range. Left ventricle (LV) posterior wall thickness was nonlinearly associated with FT4 in the adjusted model 1, with a greater thickness near the limits of the reference range. Regarding diastolic function, no significant associations were observed in adjusted models. CONCLUSIONS Thyroid function within the reference range was associated with heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac structure, and function. Increasing thyroid function (lower TSH, higher FT4, or higher FT3) was associated with a higher heart rate, a lower diastolic blood pressure, and larger LV volumes. LV wall thickness and ejection fraction had a U-shaped association with thyroid hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Sérgio Neves
- Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- *João Sérgio Neves, Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, PT–4200-319 Porto (Portugal),
| | - Ricardo Fontes-Carvalho
- Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Cardiology, Centro Hospitalar Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Marta Borges-Canha
- Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Leite
- Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Martins
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit − Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Oliveira
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Tiago Guimarães
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit − Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Davide Carvalho
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adelino Leite-Moreira
- Unidade de Investigação Cardiovascular, Departamento de Cirurgia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Azevedo
- EPIUnit − Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Azizi F, Abdi H, Cheraghi L, Amouzegar A. Treatment of Subclinical Hyperthyroidism in the Elderly: Comparison of Radioiodine and Long-Term Methimazole Treatment. Thyroid 2021; 31:545-551. [PMID: 32811342 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2020.0433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of radioiodine (RAI) and long-term methimazole (MMI) in the treatment of subclinical hyperthyroidism (SH) in the elderly. Methods: From 306 patients, aged ≥65 years, with SH, 83 patients with thyrotropin <0.1 mU/L entered the study. In this randomized parallel-group trial, 41 and 42 patients were randomized to either RAI or long-term MMI treatment, respectively. Results: In the RAI and MMI groups, 3 and 4 patients were excluded due to side effects, choosing other modes of treatment, and not returning for follow-up; 35 and 36 patients completed 60 months of follow-up, respectively. In the RAI group, 23 (66%) became hypothyroid, and 12 (34%) remained euthyroid 60 months after a fixed dose of 15 mCi RAI. In the MMI group, the starting dose was 10 mg daily and decreased to 4.9 ± 1.0, 4.3 ± 1.0, 4.4 ± 1.4, 4.3 ± 1.8, and 3.7 ± 1.3 mg after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years of continuous MMI treatment, employing titration method. By the end of study, 34 (94%) patients were euthyroid and 2 patients with diffuse goiter developed spontaneous hypothyroidism with MMI treatment. Minor adverse events occurred in both groups in the first four months of treatment. No death or serious side effects were observed during 60 months of follow-up. Conclusions: Both RAI and long-term low-dose MMI therapies are effective and safe for treatment of SH in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center; Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hengameh Abdi
- Endocrine Research Center; Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Cheraghi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Amouzegar
- Endocrine Research Center; Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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What Is the Quality of Life in Patients Treated with Levothyroxine for Hypothyroidism and How Are We Measuring It? A Critical, Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10071386. [PMID: 33808358 PMCID: PMC8037475 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10071386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (THRT, generally using oral levothyroxine (LT4)) is a safe, effective means of treating hypothyroidism. However, a proportion of LT4-treated patients with biochemically normal thyroid function tests complain of persistent symptoms that impact their health-related quality of life (QoL). The objectives of this critical, narrative review of the literature were to identify studies of QoL in LT4-treated patients with hypothyroidism, examine the instruments used to measure QoL, determine whether normal QoL is restored by THRT, and identify factors associated with QoL. The PubMed database was searched from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2020. A total of 809 publications were screened, 129 full-text articles were retrieved, and 58 were analyzed. The studies of overt hypothyroidism evidenced an improvement in psychological and emotional well-being after three to six months of THRT with LT4, although contrasting results were found for patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. Combination treatment with LT4 and liothyronine was not generally associated with better QoL. In hypothyroidism, QoL appears to be influenced by a number of physiological, behavioral, cognitive and/or lifestyle factors that are not strictly related to thyroid hormone levels.
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