[Subclinical thyroid disease]

Subclinical thyroid dysfunction is a frequent disorder characterized by abnormal levels of thryotropin (TSH) and normal thyoid hormones. Subclinical hypothyroidism can be associated with unspecific symptoms and dyslipidemia, a substitution is generally recommended if the TSH is > 10 microU/l. With lower TSH-levels, the indication for substitution is individual, depending on other risk factors or diseases like dyslipidemia, smoking, goiter, pregnancy or clinical symptoms. Subclinical hyperthyrodism is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation and reduced bone mass densitiy. A diagnostic and therapeutic approach should be performed individually.