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Published on: November 18, 2018
Pulmonary arterial hypertension and thyroid disease
Denise Rossato Silva1, Marcelo Basso Gazzana, Angela Beatriz John
1Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.
Summary
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is linked to thyroid disease, but this combination generally has a good prognosis. Treatment of the thyroid condition often reverses pulmonary artery pressure increases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology and Endocrinology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Emerging evidence suggests an association between pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
- The interplay between thyroid hormones, autoimmunity, and cardiovascular function is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence of thyroid disease in PAH patients and vice versa.
- To explore the impact of thyroid diseases on the respiratory system.
- To discuss treatment outcomes for patients with co-existing PAH and thyroid disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing current research on PAH and thyroid disease.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on the co-occurrence of these conditions.
- Examination of physiological effects of thyroid dysfunction on pulmonary circulation.
Main Results:
- The combination of PAH and thyroid disease typically presents with mild pulmonary artery pressure elevation.
- Pulmonary hypertension associated with thyroid disease often shows reversibility following thyroid disorder treatment.
- Thyroid function screening is recommended for all PAH patients due to high comorbidity prevalence.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid disease is a significant comorbidity in PAH, influencing prognosis and management.
- Understanding the mechanisms linking thyroid hormones and autoimmunity to PAH pathogenesis is crucial.
- Integrated management addressing both conditions is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
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