ISOLATED MATERNAL HYPOTHYROXINEMIA AND ITS PERINATAL OUTCOME IN NORTH MACEDONIA

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Obstetrics
• Perinatology

Background:

• Isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia (IMH) is characterized by low maternal total thyroxine (TT4) with normal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
• The association between IMH and adverse pregnancy outcomes remains debated.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for maternal and fetal health management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between IMH and adverse pregnancy outcomes in North Macedonia.
• To identify potential risk factors, such as maternal BMI, associated with IMH.
• To determine the predictive value of TSH, TT4, and BMI on perinatal outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 359 pregnant women was studied.
• Dried blood spot samples were analyzed for TT4 and TSH levels.
• Postpartum data, including birth weight, Apgar scores, and delivery methods, were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• 37.42% of women were classified as having IMH.
• IMH group showed significant differences in birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), Apgar scores, and cesarean sections.
• Maternal BMI was associated with increased IMH and higher birth weight; TT4 and TSH predicted various perinatal outcomes.

Conclusions:

• IMH is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, including lower Apgar scores and increased need for cesarean sections.
• Maternal overweight may be a risk factor for IMH during pregnancy.
• TSH, TT4, and BMI are significant predictors of perinatal outcomes in pregnant women.