Background and Objectives: Hypothyroidism has significant cardiovascular manifestations. Overt and subclinical hypothyroidism both are associated with cardiovascular dysfunction and with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This study was done to recognize cardiovascular changes associated with newly detected hypothyroid patients.
Methods: Based on the symptoms, clinical examination and hormonal assay, newly detected hypothyroid patients were subjected to detailed cardiovascular examination, electrocardiograph, echocardiography and Tread mill test. Patients were investigated, before the thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Results: Hypothyroidism was newly diagnosed more in females and maximum in age group 18-47 years (69.9%) of age group. Out of 30 patients, 63.3% had symptomsless than 3 months duration. Cardiovascular symptoms was present in less number of patients. Bradycardia was observed in 8% of the patients. Cardiomegaly was observed in 10% of the patients. Low voltage complexes in electrocardiogram was present in 43.3% study group. Pericardial effusion was present in 20% patients. Tread mill test was positive for inducible ischemia in one patient. Systolic and diastolic dysfunction was noticed respectively in 6.7% and 3.3% study group. Altered lipid profile was present in 16.7% (S. cholesterol) and 53.4% (S.Triglycerides).
Interpretation and Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is common in females, maximum between 18-47 years agegroup. Majority of the patients did not have any cardiovascular changes. Observed cardiovascular changes were ECG abnormalities and pericardial effusion. Systematic study was done to know the early effects of hypothyroidism on cardiovascular system. The identification of patients with hypothyroidism is an important individual and public health issue. Hence, early detection and initiation of hormone replacement therapy can minimize associated cardiovascular changes.

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Dr G.Sucharitha

Post Graduate, Department of General Medicine