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Autoimmune Hashimoto's Disease and Feminization Level-Testing the Immunocompetence Hypothesis
Malwina Goździk1, Agnieszka Żelaźniewicz1, Judyta Nowak-Kornicka1
1Department of Human Biology, University of Wrocław, Wroclaw, Poland.
Summary
Women with higher feminine traits, like a lower 2D:4D ratio, may have increased risk or severity of Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT). Estrogen exposure might influence autoimmune disease development.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Morphological femininity, influenced by estrogen, is linked to immunity.
- Heightened immunity in women may increase autoimmune disease risk.
- The relationship between femininity and immune-related diseases is complex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between morphological femininity and Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) occurrence and severity.
- To assess if feminine traits correlate with HT in women of reproductive age.
Main Methods:
- Studied 95 women with HT and 84 controls (aged 20-37).
- Assessed morphological femininity using somatic measurements (2D:4D ratio, WHR, breast size, facial dimorphism).
- Measured HT occurrence and severity via serum TPOAb levels.
Main Results:
- The HT group showed a higher right-hand 2D:4D ratio, suggesting greater femininity.
- Facial femininity positively correlated with TPOAb levels in HT patients, indicating increased disease severity.
- A tentative link between prenatal/pubertal estrogen exposure and autoimmune disease risk/severity was observed.
Conclusions:
- Higher feminine traits may be associated with increased Hashimoto thyroiditis risk or severity.
- Estrogen's role in immune function and autoimmune disease development warrants further investigation.
- The relationship between morphological femininity and autoimmune conditions like HT is complex and requires more research.
