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Electrophysiologic changes in patients with untreated primary hypothyroidism
Fariba Eslamian1, Amir Bahrami, Naser Aghamohammadzadeh
1Research Center of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Imam Reza Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. eslamiyanf@tbzmed.ac.ir
Summary
Untreated hypothyroidism commonly causes carpal tunnel syndrome, with neuropathy and myopathy being less frequent neuromuscular issues. Early treatment can prevent these thyroid-related nerve and muscle problems.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Thyroid diseases, particularly hypothyroidism, can manifest with neuromuscular dysfunction.
- Clinical features may include proximal muscle weakness, mononeuropathy, and sensorimotor polyneuropathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate electrophysiologic findings in patients with untreated spontaneous hypothyroidism.
- To compare these findings with a healthy control group.
Main Methods:
- A case-control cross-sectional study involving 40 patients with hypothyroidism and 40 healthy controls.
- Electromyography and nerve conduction studies were performed.
Main Results:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome was the most common finding (32.5%), with severity varying from mild to severe.
- Neuropathy (15%) and myopathy (7.5%) were less common.
- Older age was significantly associated with neuropathy.
Conclusions:
- Untreated primary hypothyroidism frequently leads to carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Mild sensory neuropathy and myopathy are uncommon.
- Prompt treatment of hypothyroidism is crucial to prevent or minimize these neuromuscular abnormalities.
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