Hyperthyroidism with reference to elevated serum FT3 and FT4 levels in patients with ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neurology
• Cardiovascular Science

Background:

• Ischemic stroke and hyperthyroidism are prevalent conditions.
• A potential association between hyperthyroidism and ischemic stroke risk warrants investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if hyperthyroidism increases the risk of ischemic stroke.
• To explore associated biochemical biomarkers and pathophysiological features.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 4,674 ischemic stroke patients.
• Comparison of clinical parameters between 582 hyperthyroid patients and 4,092 controls with normal thyroid function.
• Logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors.

Main Results:

• Higher median serum levels of triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) in the hyperthyroidism group.
• Elevated FT3 (OR 2.097) and FT4 (OR 1.503) were associated with increased ischemic stroke risk.
• Cholesterol, LDL, and HDL levels differed between groups, with HDL showing a protective association (OR 0.330).

Conclusions:

• Elevated serum FT3 and FT4 levels are associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke.
• Thyroid hormones may influence stroke outcomes, potentially worsening injury and prognosis in hyperthyroid patients.