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Association between thyroid function, thyroid autoimmunity, and state and trait factors of depression.
A C van de Ven1, J-W Muntjewerff, R T Netea-Maier
1Department of Endocrinology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, the Netherlands. ac.ven@aig.umcn.nl
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|April 27, 2012
Summary
Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) are linked to trait depression markers, suggesting TPOAb may indicate a vulnerability to depression. Standard thyroid function tests showed no such association.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
- Immunology
Background:
- Thyroid dysfunction is implicated in mood disorders.
- The role of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) in depression requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between thyroid function (TSH, FT4) and TPOAb with depression, considering both state and trait depression parameters.
Main Methods:
- 1125 participants underwent two measurements of TSH, FT4, and TPOAb.
- Depression was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), lifetime diagnosis, and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire Revised Short Scale (EPQ-RSS) for neuroticism.
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between TSH or FT4 levels and depression measures.
- Individuals with TPOAb exhibited higher neuroticism scores (trait depression marker).
- A higher prevalence of lifetime depression diagnosis was observed in subjects with positive TPOAb.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid peroxidase antibodies are positively associated with trait markers of depression.
- TPOAb may serve as a vulnerability marker for developing depression.
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