The debate on treating subclinical hypothyroidism.
10.11622/smedj.2016165
- Author:
Eng Loon TNG
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
adolescents;
children;
overt hypothyroidism;
pregnancy;
subclinical hypothyroidism
- MeSH:
Adolescent;
Biomarkers;
metabolism;
Bone and Bones;
Child;
Coronary Disease;
blood;
Disease Progression;
Female;
Goiter;
complications;
Humans;
Hypothyroidism;
blood;
diagnosis;
therapy;
Male;
Migraine Disorders;
physiopathology;
Pregnancy;
Pregnancy Complications;
Prospective Studies;
Retrospective Studies;
Risk Factors;
Treatment Outcome
- From:Singapore medical journal
2016;57(10):539-545
- CountrySingapore
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) represents a mild or compensated form of primary hypothyroidism. The diagnosis of SCH is controversial, as its symptoms are non-specific and its biochemical diagnosis is arbitrary. The treatment of SCH was examined among non-pregnant adults, pregnant adults and children. In non-pregnant adults, treatment of SCH may prevent its progression to overt hypothyroidism, reduce the occurrence of coronary heart disease, and improve neuropsychiatric and musculoskeletal symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. These benefits are counteracted by cardiovascular, neuropsychiatric and musculoskeletal side effects. SCH is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes that may improve with treatment. Treating SCH in children is safe and may improve growth. Importantly, the evidence in this field is largely from retrospective and prospective studies with design limitations, which precludes a conclusive recommendation for the treatment of SCH.
