Semester 1 Lecture 5 Hypothyroidism Flashcards
Describe hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by decreased production of thyroid hormones, leading to a slowing down of body processes.
What are the risk factors for hypothyroidism?
Risk factors for hypothyroidism include autoimmune hypothyroidism, postoperative hyperthyroidism, hypopituitarism, and hypothalamic disease.
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed through testing for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free tri-iodothyronine (FT3), especially when there is clinical suspicion or abnormal growth.
Define primary hypothyroidism.
Primary hypothyroidism refers to autoimmune hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is directly affected.
What are the common symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, constipation, depression, muscle aches and weakness, and muscle cramps.
What is the first-line treatment for hypothyroidism?
The first-line treatment for hypothyroidism is Levothyroxine Na, starting at 1.6ug/kg OD rounded to the nearest 25ug.
Describe the maintenance dose of Levothyroxine Na for hypothyroidism.
The maintenance dose of Levothyroxine Na for hypothyroidism ranges from 50 to 200ug daily.
How should Levothyroxine Na be taken for hypothyroidism?
Levothyroxine Na should be taken 30-60 minutes before breakfast or caffeine consumption.
What should be considered for testing in individuals suspected of hypothyroidism?
Testing should be considered in individuals with clinical suspicion of thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes, abnormal growth, unexplained changes in behavior or school performance, depression, or unexplained anxiety.
Describe the monitoring protocol for TSH levels in adults with hypothyroidism.
TSH levels should be measured every 3 months until stabilized (2 similar measurements within the reference range 3 months apart), and then annually.
What is secondary hypothyroidism?
Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by pituitary or hypothalamic disease affecting the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
What is the gender predilection for hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is 5-10 times more common in women compared to men.
What are the cardiovascular implications of hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to the effects of decreased thyroid hormones on the heart.
Describe the second-line treatment for hypothyroidism.
The second-line treatment for hypothyroidism includes antithyroid drugs in cases where Levothyroxine Na is not effective or tolerated.
What are the age considerations for hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism can affect individuals of any age, but it may present differently in children and older adults.
