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Updated: Jul 4, 2026

In vivo Characterization of Endocrine Disrupting Chemical Effects via Thyroid Hormone Action Indicator Mouse
Published on: October 6, 2023
The effect of thyroid hormone on skeletal integrity
1Division of Bone and Mineral Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
Thyroid hormone imbalances, particularly hyperthyroidism and TSH suppression, can negatively impact bone health, especially in postmenopausal women. Regular bone density assessments are recommended for these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
- Primary Care Medicine
Background:
- Thyroid disease and osteoporosis are prevalent conditions managed in primary care.
- Existing research has not fully clarified the relationship between thyroid hormone levels and skeletal integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing evidence on how thyroid hormone affects skeletal health.
- Investigated effects of hyperthyroidism, TSH suppression, and thyroid hormone replacement therapy on bone.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a MEDLINE search for studies published between 1966 and 1997.
- Included cross-sectional, longitudinal studies, and meta-analyses with appropriate controls and defined thyroid states.
Main Results:
- Hyperthyroidism and TSH suppression therapy appear to adversely affect bone, particularly cortical bone in postmenopausal women.
- Thyroid hormone replacement therapy demonstrated minimal clinical impact on bone density.
Conclusions:
- Women with a history of hyperthyroidism or TSH suppression require skeletal status assessment.
- Bone mineral densitometry, focusing on cortical bone sites like the hip or forearm, is recommended.
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