European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is defined as an elevated serum thyroidstimulating
hormone (TSH) level with a normal serum free tri-iodothyronine (FT3) & free
thyroxine (FT4) concentration. Hypothyroidism is associated with an increased risk of
atherosclerosis. SCH can progress to overt hypothyroidism. Carotid intima-media thickness
(CIMT) is a close marker of early atherosclerotic changes and is a widely accepted surrogate
end point for cardiovascular events.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To study the CIMT in patients with SCH.
MATERIAL &METHODS:
35 individuals with newly diagnosed / untreated SCHwere studied. 35 age and sex matched
adults with normal thyroid profile were taken as controls. Serum TSH, FT3, FT4, and CIMT
were measured in all study subjects.
RESULTS:There was a statistically significant increase in CIMT on both sides.
CONCLUSION:SCH is associated with an increase in CIMT, which is a marker of
atherosclerosis, with a resultant risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Thus, it is
important to detect this condition early so that appropriate steps may be taken to prevent its
deadly complications.