ardiovascular risk factors associated with hypothyroidism in children and adolescents with Down Syndrome

Objective: To evaluate the association between cardiometabolic risk factors and treated hypothyroidism in children and adolescents with Down Syndrome. Methods: Of 51 patients with Down Syndrome, 20 met the eligibility criteria and participated in a cross-sectional study, underwent clinical examination, laboratory tests aimed at evaluating thyroid function, insulin resistance and lipids. Results: Age ranged from 4.0 to 19 years (mean:11.6), 14 were pubertal, 8(40%) had acanthosis nigricans, 7(35%) were overweight/obese and 3(15%) had increased abdominal circumference, Z-BMI was higher in males (p=0.034). Elevations of insulin were observed in 7(35%) patients of the HOMA-IR index in 5(25%), of triglycerides in 12(60%), ferritin in 6(30%), reduction of HDL-cholesterol in 10(50%). Triglycerides and non-HDL-cholesterol were significantly higher in males. Free T4 concentrations were higher in females (p=0.043). The variables Z-BMI and waist circumference showed an inverse correlation with Free T4 and Total T3 and a direct correlation with insulin, ferritin and triglycerides concentrations. Conclusion: The data from the present study indicate the need to optimize the treatment of hypothyroidism, prevention and reduction of cardiometabolic risk factors, especially in males.