Study of Thyroid Function in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome

Journal Title: International Journal of Contemporary Medical Research - Year 2018, Vol 5, Issue 3

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol, one of the most misused psychoactive substances impairs the functioning of many vital organs. It is known to have a direct toxic effect on thyroid cells with derangements in the secretion of TSH and feedback regulation of TRH. This study analyses the extent of thyroid dysfunction in cases of alcohol dependence syndrome. Material and methods: The blood samples of 33 patients aged between 25 to 55 yrs admitted as Alcohol Dependant Syndromes in the psychiatry ward of Tertiary care centre were assessed for T3, T4 and TSH using Radio Immuno Assay (RIA) method. Results: There were a total of 17 cases (i.e. 51.5% of cases) in which thyroid function tests were deranged (T3/T4 low and /or TSH raised). Lowered T3 levels was the most common abnormality seen (36.3% cases). Among the total of 33 cases, only one case had subclinical hypothyroidism and one had frank hypothyroidism. Therefore, although deranged thyroid function is common in alcoholics, subclinical and frank hypothyroidism is rare. All the liver function tests were within the normal limits except AST levels which was elevated with an increased AST/ALT Ratio of 1.6. Conclusion: Thyroid function evaluation being a simple cheap and cost effective test,it is suggested that all alcoholics or alcohol dependence syndrome cases should be screened by thyroid function tests for hypothyroidism so that early diagnosis and treatment can reverse mood changes and depression, which are commonly seen in alcoholics.

Authors and Affiliations

Aiswarya CS, Sangeetha Sampath, Deeptika Aggarwal, AVS Anil Kumar

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP430023
  • DOI -
  • Views 139
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How To Cite

Aiswarya CS, Sangeetha Sampath, Deeptika Aggarwal, AVS Anil Kumar (2018). Study of Thyroid Function in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome. International Journal of Contemporary Medical Research, 5(3), 6-8. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-430023