[Hypothyroïdism during lithium treatment (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology
• Immunology

Context:

• Lithium is a common mood stabilizer.
• Hypothyroidism is a potential side effect of lithium therapy.
• Pre-existing thyroid conditions may influence lithium's impact.

Purpose:

• To present cases of hypothyroidism in patients treated with lithium.
• To explore the association between lithium and pre-existing thyroid abnormalities.

Summary:

• Five patients on lithium developed hypothyroidism.
• Three had elevated antithyroid antibodies.
• One had a history of thyroidectomy, and another had congenital thyroid agenesis.

Impact:

• Suggests a relationship between lithium and underlying thyroid issues.
• Highlights the importance of monitoring thyroid function in patients on lithium, particularly those with risk factors.