Correlation Between Serum TSH Levels Within Normal Range and Serum Lipid Profile.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Clinical Biochemistry

Background:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a key regulator of thyroid function.
• Serum lipid profiles are crucial indicators of cardiovascular health.
• The relationship between subclinical variations in TSH and lipid metabolism requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between serum TSH levels within the normal range and serum lipid profiles.
• To analyze the influence of normal TSH levels on lipid profiles across different age groups and genders.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1962 subjects with normal thyroid function was analyzed.
• Subjects were stratified into four groups based on serum TSH quartiles (Q1-Q4).
• Serum lipid profiles (TC, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C) were assessed and compared across TSH quartiles and demographic subgroups.

Main Results:

• Elevated TSH levels within the normal range were associated with increased total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, particularly in younger individuals.
• Age and gender significantly modified the association between TSH levels and lipid profiles.
• Higher LDL-C levels were observed in middle-aged and elderly individuals compared to youth at similar TSH levels.

Conclusions:

• Serum TSH levels within the normal range are closely associated with serum lipid profiles.
• Increasing TSH levels within the normal range correlate with a gradual increase in serum lipid levels.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering TSH levels even within the normal range for cardiovascular risk assessment.