Characterization of thyroid function and antithyroid antibody tests among Saudis

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Clinical Chemistry
• Immunology

Background:

• Establishing accurate reference intervals for thyroid function tests is crucial for diagnosing thyroid disorders.
• The prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity in the Saudi population requires specific investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine reference intervals for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3) in the Saudi population.
• To assess the prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity, including anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, in Saudi individuals.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted with 132 Saudi subjects aged 13-60 years.
• Thyroid function tests (TSH, FT4, FT3) and antithyroid antibodies were measured using immunoassay techniques.
• Exclusion criteria included prior thyroid disease history, relevant medications, pregnancy, lactation, and goiter.

Main Results:

• Reference intervals were established: TSH (0.59-4.37 mIU/L), FT4 (12.04-19.13 pmol/L), and FT3 (4.07-6.76 pmol/L).
• The prevalence of antithyroid antibodies was found to be 26% in the study population.
• Elevated TSH levels were observed in individuals with positive antithyroid antibodies compared to antibody-negative subjects.

Conclusions:

• The determined TSH reference range aligns with existing laboratory standards.
• Thyroid autoimmunity is prevalent in the Saudi population, indicating a need for further extensive research.
• These findings provide a baseline for understanding thyroid health in Saudi Arabia.