[Subclinical hypothyroidism--a condition that must be treated?].
Subclinical hypothyroidism, defined as serum thyrotropin above the upper reference limit with normal estimates of free thyroxin in serum, has a prevalence in Denmark of 2%. Several investigations have shown that patients with subclinical hypothyroidism have subtle symptoms and signs of mild thyroid failure. Whether these patients require treatment or not is a controversial issue due to a lack of convincing evidence regarding the beneficial effects of hormone replacement, especially in patients with serum TSH <10 mU/L. However, when it comes to treatment of pregnant or fertile women planning pregnancy, no doubt prevails, as normal thyroid function is important for optimal pregnancy outcome.
Karmisholt
Jesper Scott
JS
Arhus Universitetshospital, Aalborg Sygehus, Medicinsk Endokrinologisk Afdeling. karmisholt@yahoo.com
Laurberg
Peter
P
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D013972:Thyrotropin / Q000097:blood
D013972:Thyrotropin