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Neutrophil function in hypothyroid patients
Abstract:
We investigated whether some in vitro polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte functions were impaired in patients with hypothyroidism, since this disease has previously been associated with an increased susceptibility to infectious agents and decreased leukocyte heat production. PMNs from 9 of 17 hypothyroid patients exhibited a decreased ability to kill Staph. aureus in vitro compared with euthyroid controls (p less than 0.02). This was normalized in all patients tested after therapy with levothyroxine. In 3 patients, studied repeatedly during the initial phase of therapy, PMN bactericidal capacity was gradually normalized. In addition, PMN adherence to nylon fibres showed a transient decrease approximately 6 weeks after initiation of therapy. PMN chemiluminescence during phagocytosis of Staph. aureus and stimulated and spontaneous migration under agarose were normal and did not change during therapy. Thus, the decreased bactericidal capacity found in half of these hypothyroid patients might confer an increased susceptibility to cerain infectious agents.
Insights
Hypothyroidism impairs polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte function, specifically reducing their ability to kill bacteria. Levothyroxine therapy normalized this function in hypothyroid patients, suggesting improved immune response.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hypothyroidism is linked to increased infection susceptibility.
- Previous studies noted decreased leukocyte heat production in hypothyroidism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate in vitro polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte functions in hypothyroid patients.
- To determine if levothyroxine therapy corrects impaired PMN functions.
Main Methods:
- Assessed PMN bactericidal capacity against Staph. aureus in hypothyroid patients and controls.
- Evaluated PMN adherence, chemiluminescence, and migration during phagocytosis.
- Monitored PMN functions before and after levothyroxine therapy.
Main Results:
- 9 of 17 hypothyroid patients showed decreased PMN ability to kill Staph. aureus.
- PMN bactericidal capacity normalized after levothyroxine therapy.
- PMN adherence transiently decreased post-therapy; migration and chemiluminescence remained normal.
Conclusions:
- Impaired PMN bactericidal capacity in hypothyroidism may increase susceptibility to certain infections.
- Levothyroxine treatment effectively restores PMN function in hypothyroid patients.