January, 2003 -- Researchers have found that hypothyroidism is typically accompanied by elevated elevated C-reactive protein and total homocysteine levels. Elevations in C-reactive protein and total homocysteine have been identified as risk factors for developing coronary heart disease. The researchers found that total homocysteine levels were quite elevated in patients with significant hypothyroidism, but not in subclinical hypothyroidism. C-reactive protein, however, was significantly increased in both those with both overt and subclinical hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine replacement did not significantly affect either total homocysteine or C-reactive protein levels.

This is the first research to show that C-reactive protein values increase with progressive thyroid failure and may count as an additional risk factor for the development of coronary heart disease in hypothyroid patients.

Source: Christ-Crain M, et. al. "Elevated C-reactive protein and homocysteine values: cardiovascular risk factors in hypothyroidism? A cross-sectional and a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial," Atherosclerosis, February 2003;166:2:379-386. (Pubmed abstract)