Thyroid dysfunction and its association with micronutrients, lipids, and inflammation: an analytical case-control...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Biochemical, inflammatory, and immunological markers offer insights into systemic changes in individuals with and without thyroid dysfunction.
• Thyroid dysfunction can lead to significant systemic alterations detectable through various biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare comprehensive biomarker profiles between adults with and without thyroid dysfunction.
• To investigate gender differences, correlations between biomarkers, and identify predictive markers for thyroid status.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 120 adults without thyroid disease and 120 with thyroid dysfunction.
• Assessment of demographics, anthropometry, thyroid hormones, micronutrients, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) PCR.
• Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U test, chi-squared test, Spearman's rho for correlations, and multivariable linear regression for predictor identification.

Main Results:

• Adults without thyroid disease had significantly lower zinc, vitamin D3, and HDL, but higher cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), LDL, and C-reactive protein (CRP) compared to those with thyroid dysfunction.
• Correlations were observed between thyroid hormones (TSH, T3) and Urea Breath Test (UBT), LDL, EBV PCR, and CRP.
• Multivariable regression identified serum TG and cholesterol as the strongest predictors of case-control status.

Conclusions:

• Distinct biochemical and inflammatory profiles differentiate adults with and without thyroid disease.
• Lipid, micronutrient, and inflammatory markers serve as potential targets for risk stratification and clinical monitoring in thyroid-related conditions.