Autoimmune Hypothyroidism And Type 1 Diabetes Linked

by Mary Shomon

April, 2003 -- Researchers from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis have confirmed the linkage between autoimmune thyroid disease and type 1 diabetes, suggesting that diabetes patients should receive regular screening for thyroid dysfunction.

In the study, 41% of the female patients developed hypothyroidism, and 19% of the male patients developed hypothyroidism.

Patients who were positive for thyroid peroxidase antibodies also were almost 18 times more likely to become hypothyroid than those who tested negative for antibodies.

The researchers suggested that patients with type 1 diabetes, and especially those who test positive for thyroid peroxidase antibodies, be tested annually for thyroid abnormalities.

Source: Diabetes Care 2003;26:4:1181-1185. "Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes: A longitudinal study"