[Subclinical thyroid dysfunction. Diagnostic and therapeutic considerations]

Mild thyroid dysfunction is a biochemical diagnosis classified either as subclinical hypo or hyperthyroidism. It can occur in young patients with a frequency that increases with age, presenting higher morbidity and mortality then. To suspect the diagnosis, it is important to keep in mind some of the nonspecific signs and symptoms of the disease, and the possible laboratory abnormalities. Furthermore, it is advisable to establish an appropriate range of values for thyrotropin (TSH), determine the presence of high risk factors in individuals under evaluation, and the possible consequences on their well-being. Taking into consideration that a non-excessive, adequate hormonal substitution prevents, improves or resolves the harmful effect on different systems of the organism; as well as an early and opportune detection and treatment of mild or subclinical thyroid dysfunction could be beneficial for the general population.