Publication:

Assessment of carotid intima-media thickness in hypothyroidism and the effect of thyroid replacement therapy

Background Carotid artery intima-media thickness (CAIMT) measurement in hypothyroidism will help assess the progression of atherosclerosis and timely intervention may prevent vascular complications.

Methods This study included 30 clinical hypothyroid (CH), 30 subclinical hypothyroid (SCH) and 30 euthyroid. As per procedure, informed consent was taken from the patients in prescribed formats before their participation in the study. Patients were divided into 3 groups of CHs, SCH and Controls after obtaining the thyroid function test values. CAIMT on the right side was measured in the three groups for comparison. Other parameters included age, sex, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol and triglycerides. After 4 months of levothyroxine therapy, CAIMT, total cholesterol and triglycerides were reassessed.

Results The CAIMT was increased in CH and SCH group when compared to euthyroid individuals. The mean CAIMT in CH group was 0.60±0.009cm, in SCH group it was 0.055±0.010 cm and in controls it was 0.047±0.006 cm. After 4 months of levothyroxine therapy, there was no change observed in the mean CAIMT values.

Conclusions CAIMT levels were increased in CH and SCH group when compared to euthyroid group. There was no regression of CAIMT after 4 months of levothyroxine therapy.