Atopy as a risk factor for subclinical hypothyroidism development in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Allergology
• Thyroidology

Background:

• Elevated serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) can signify subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) or transient hyperthyrotropinemia.
• The clinical significance of high TSH in allergic children requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if elevated serum TSH in allergic children represents true SCH or transient hyperthyrotropinemia.
• To assess the association between atopy and SCH prevalence and severity.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 620 allergic children (aged 1.11–12.8 years) was studied.
• Children were categorized as atopic or non-atopic based on allergy testing.
• Thyroid function, inflammation markers, and TSH levels were assessed at baseline, 6 months (T1), and 12 months (T2).

Main Results:

• Both atopic and non-atopic children exhibited higher SCH prevalence than controls (p=0.0055 and p=0.02, respectively).
• A significant association was found between atopy and SCH (OR 10.11).
• Atopic children had a higher risk of developing severe SCH at T1 (RR 1.8) and T2 (RR 1.61) compared to non-atopics.

Conclusions:

• Hyperthyrotropinemia in atopic children may serve as a marker for true subclinical hypothyroidism.
• The findings highlight a potential link between allergic conditions and thyroid dysfunction in pediatric populations.