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Thyroid dysfunction in antiretroviral treated children.
Alessandra Viganò1, Sara Riboni, Roberta Bianchi
1University of Milan, L Sacco Hospital, L Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy. alessandra.vigan@unimi.it
The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|March 12, 2004
Summary
Thyroid abnormalities are common in children on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), with 35% showing issues like low free thyroxine. Regular thyroid function monitoring is recommended for these pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Infectious Diseases
- HIV/AIDS Research
Background:
- Thyroid dysfunction is prevalent in adults with HIV on HAART.
- Limited data exists on thyroid function in HIV-infected children undergoing HAART.
- This study addresses the gap in understanding pediatric thyroid health in the context of HAART.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate thyroid function in children with HIV receiving HAART.
- To identify the prevalence and types of thyroid abnormalities in this population.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 52 HIV-infected children on HAART for thyroid dysfunction.
- Measured serum concentrations of TSH, FT4, FT3, TG, rT3, and thyroid antibodies (anti-TG, anti-TSM).
Main Results:
- 18 (35%) children exhibited thyroid abnormalities, primarily isolated low FT4 (16 children).
- Children with low FT4 had shorter HAART duration and lower CD4 cell percentage.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) response to TRH test was normal in low FT4 cases.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid abnormalities frequently occur in HAART-treated children, often asymptomatic.
- Routine thyroid function monitoring is crucial for pediatric patients on HAART.