Publication:

Role of thyroid metabolism in vestibular vertigo

Background Thyroid hormones play a role in the development and functioning of the inner ear.  Therefore, it was hypothesized that a derangement in the thyroid hormone levels can affect the cochleo-vestibular system.

Methods The present study included 64 cases and 64 controls. All patients diagnosed with peripheral vertigo were enrolled into the study. All the subjects underwent thyroid function tests- serum T3, T4 and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Free hormone levels were obtained in patients with subclinical hypo or hyperthyroidism. The data was analyzed using Independent sample t test.

Results Out of 64 cases only 10 patients showed altered thyroid values. Fifty-nine cases were diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) out of which 9 (15%) had altered thyroid hormone levels. Among the control group, 12 were found to have deranged thyroid hormone levels.

Conclusions There is no association between functional thyroid hormone levels and BPPV. Therefore, altered thyroid metabolism has no role in the causation of vestibular dysfunction due to BPPV. However, in case of Meniere’s disease and Vestibular neuronitis further studies with large sample size are required to ascertain the role of functional thyroid hormones in producing vestibular symptoms.