Thyroid Levels and Aging: When Should We Worry?
This study establishes age- and sex-specific reference intervals for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) using over 7.6 million TSH and 2.2 million FT4 measurements. Findings show that TSH upper limits are higher in childhood, decrease in adolescence, and rise again in adulthood, especially after age 50 in women and 60 in men. FT4 levels remain relatively stable across age groups. Incorporating age- and sex-specific thresholds into diagnostic guidelines may improve thyroid disease management and reduce misclassification risks.
Read more Patients Prefer T3-Containing Therapies for Hypothyroidism
This meta-analysis of eleven randomized controlled trials evaluates patient preferences for hypothyroidism treatment. Findings reveal that 52% preferred combination therapy (levothyroxine (LT4) with liothyronine (LT3) or desiccated thyroid extract (DTE)), while 24% preferred LT4 monotherapy, and 24% had no preference. Combination therapy demonstrated better outcomes for symptom relief in some patients, despite ongoing debate about its clinical significance. These results emphasize the need for personalized approaches in hypothyroidism treatment.
Read more Does Fluoride Exposure Affect Thyroid Function? A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis
This meta-analysis examines the impact of fluoride exposure on thyroid function and disease risk, focusing on studies conducted mainly in Asia and among children. Higher fluoride levels, particularly in drinking water above 2.5 mg/L, were associated with increased thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and a higher risk of hypothyroidism and goiter. While evidence linking fluoride to other thyroid hormones was less clear, these findings highlight potential thyroid-related risks of high fluoride exposure.
Read more Effectiveness of Different Treatment Modalities in Initial and Chronic Phases of Thyroid Eye Disease: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Thyroid eye disease (TED), a common extra-thyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease, poses significant management challenges due to potential disfigurement, visual impairment, and decreased quality of life. Uncertainties remain about the optimal treatment approach, especially regarding TED duration and its impact on outcomes. This meta-analysis highlights the importance of tailoring treatment strategies based on TED duration, emphasizing early interventions to maximize benefits.
Read more Efficacy of Levothyroxine Monotherapy in Achieving Clinical Euthyroidism and Its Impact on Weight Loss in Women with Hypothyroidism and Obesity
This study examines weight loss outcomes in women with obesity and hypothyroidism treated with levothyroxine (LT4), compared to those without thyroid disease. Both groups showed similar reductions in weight, BMI, and lipid profiles after calorie restriction, exercise, and metformin when needed. Insulin resistance remained unchanged. Despite differences in thyroid hormone levels, achieving euthyroid status with LT4 therapy led to comparable weight loss outcomes. These findings support the effectiveness of LT4 monotherapy in addressing weight-related metabolic concerns in hypothyroid women.
Read more Efficacy of Radiofrequency Ablation in Autonomous Functioning Thyroid Nodules: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that has recently emerged as a treatment option for autonomous functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs), offering a less invasive alternative to surgery. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of RFA for AFTNs. The results indicate that RFA is a promising non-surgical treatment for AFTNs, showing high rates of TSH normalization, tumor size reduction, and improved cosmetic and symptom scores.
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