Potential relationships between COVID-19 and the thyroid gland: an update

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been linked to various health complications.
• Thyroid dysfunction encompasses a range of conditions affecting thyroid hormone production and regulation.
• The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis is crucial for maintaining metabolic homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of SARS-CoV-2-induced thyroid dysfunction.
• To explore the role of SARS-CoV-2 in the development of various thyroid disorders.
• To discuss the clinical implications and potential mechanisms of thyroid dysfunction post-COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent clinical studies and scientific literature.
• Analysis of documented cases of thyroid dysfunction associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Synthesis of findings on the impact of COVID-19 on the thyroid gland and HPT axis.

Main Results:

• Thyroid dysfunction, including subacute thyroiditis, Graves' disease, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is a documented sequela of COVID-19.
• SARS-CoV-2 may directly infect the thyroid or trigger autoimmune responses via cytokine storm.
• COVID-19 can activate pre-existing thyroid conditions or autoimmunity; thyroid dysfunction is usually reversible.

Conclusions:

• The thyroid gland and HPT axis are potential targets for SARS-CoV-2.
• COVID-19 can precipitate or exacerbate various thyroid disorders, necessitating clinical attention.
• Understanding SARS-CoV-2's impact on thyroid function is crucial for patient management and treatment.