White Matter Microstructural Integrity Impairments in Hypothyroidism Assessed by Tract-based Spatial Statistics

Motivation: This study explores how clinical and subclinical hypothyroidism affect white matter (WM) integrity, which is crucial for brain connectivity and cognitive-emotional function. The gap in understanding WM changes between hypothyroid groups and healthy controls motivates this research. Goal(s): Investigate differential WM alterations in hypothyroidism, correlating thyroid hormones (TT3, TT4) with cognitive performance and identifying key brain regions involved. Approach: A cross-sectional study using DTI, thyroid function tests, and cognitive assessments to evaluate WM changes. Results: Significant WM alterations were found, especially in the posterior thalamic radiation, correlating with thyroid hormone levels and cognitive performance. Impact: The results highlight specific white matter changes in hypothyroidism, aiding diagnosis and treatment. It suggest potential biomarkers for cognitive decline and encourage research into thyroid dysfunction's impact on brain structure and new therapeutic approaches targeting white matter integrity.