CLINICO-BIOCHEMICAL INSIGHTS INTO THYROID DYSFUNCTION IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS: A STUDY IN KUMAON, UTTARAKHAND

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the clinico-biochemical profile of new-onset thyroid dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) attending a tertiary care center in the Kumaon region, focusing on sociodemographic characteristics, types of thyroid dysfunction, and correlations with glycemic and lipid profiles.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted over 24 months, involving 150 T2DM patients presenting with new-onset thyroid dysfunction. Participants were recruited from outpatient, inpatient, and emergency departments. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, thyroid function tests, glycemic parameters, and lipid profiles. Thyroid dysfunction was categorized into subclinical hypothyroidism, overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism, and overt hyperthyroidism based on TSH, T3, and T4 levels. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant associations among variables.

Results: Hypothyroidism was the most prevalent thyroid dysfunction (43.3%), followed by subclinical hypothyroidism (34%) and hyperthyroidism (22.7%). Females constituted 78.67% of the study population. Significant correlations were observed between thyroid dysfunction and glycemic control, with higher fasting blood sugar, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1C levels in hypothyroid patients. Lipid abnormalities, including elevated total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels, were more pronounced in hypothyroidism. Subclinical hypothyroidism showed intermediate values, while hyperthyroidism was associated with lower lipid levels.

Conclusion: The study highlights the high prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in T2DM patients, emphasizing the need for routine thyroid screening and integrated management of glycemic and lipid parameters to prevent complications. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and awareness campaigns, especially in resource-limited settings like the Kumaon region.