[Subclinical hypothyroidism]

Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined as normal serum free thyroxine and tri-iodothyronine concentrations and a slightly eleveted serum thyrotropin (TSH) concentration. Only laboratory results can detect this disorder. The causes of this disease are the same as those of overt hypothyroidism. Most patients with subclinical hypothyroidism should be treated with thyroxine aiming to reduce the patient's serum TSH concentration to normal. Treatment will prevent progression to overt hypothyroidism and in some cases ameliorate non specific symptoms and lipid profile.