STUDY TO ASSESS SERUM FERRITIN LEVELS, LIPID PROFILE, AND THYROID PROFILE IN HYPOTHYROID PATIENTS

Objective: This study aims to evaluate thyroid hormone levels, lipid profiles, and serum ferritin concentrations in hypothyroid patients, exploring the interplay between iron deficiency, thyroid function, and lipid metabolism. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at Gandhi Medical College, Secunderabad, from 2019 to 2021, with 50 hypothyroid patients (aged 25–45 years) and 100 healthy controls. Blood samples were collected after 8–10 h of fasting and analyzed for thyroid hormones, ferritin, and lipid profiles. Statistical analysis was performed using EpiInfo software, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: The study revealed significantly elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels (13.4±10.2 mIU/l) and reduced Triiodothyronine (T3) (0.81±0.31 nmol/dL) and Thyroxine (T4) (4.4±0.93 μg/dL) levels in hypothyroid patients compared to controls (p<0.05). The serum ferritin levels were markedly lower in hypothyroid patients (16.9±13.9 ng/mL) than in controls (43.3±19.9 ng/mL), with 68% of cases showing ferritin deficiency. Dyslipidemia was prominent, with higher total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very LDL levels and reduced high-density lipoprotein in cases compared to controls (p<0.05). Conclusion: Hypothyroid patients exhibit significant ferritin deficiency and dyslipidemia, highlighting the interconnectedness of iron status, thyroid function, and lipid metabolism. Addressing iron deficiency in hypothyroid patients may improve thyroid function and overall metabolic health.