Temperature Differences Between Controlled Primary Hypothyroidism and Healthy Patients: An Exploratory Study.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolism
• Thermoregulation

Background:

• Hypothyroidism is commonly treated with levothyroxine (LT4) replacement therapy.
• Despite treatment, some patients with hypothyroidism report persistent cold intolerance.
• Understanding residual thermoregulatory deficits is crucial for improving patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare skin temperature and temperature perception in patients with primary controlled hypothyroidism (PCH) versus healthy controls.
• To assess the quality of life in PCH patients compared to controls.

Main Methods:

• Skin temperature was measured in central and peripheral body regions.
• Subjects reported temperature perception in a controlled environment.
• Quality of life was assessed using the ThyPRO-39 questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Patients with PCH exhibited significantly lower palmar skin temperature compared to controls (P=0.046).
• Temperature perception did not differ between the PCH group and controls.
• PCH patients reported a significantly lower quality of life (P < .001).

Conclusions:

• Controlled hypothyroidism on LT4 therapy is associated with impaired thermogenesis and lower body temperatures.
• These thermoregulatory abnormalities may contribute to persistent cold intolerance and reduced quality of life.
• Further research into hormonal adaptation to environmental changes is warranted.