AbstractBackground and Introduction: Hypothyroidism is a common condition which causes numerous metabolic derangements. Based on the physiology of TSH and the thyroid hormones, it was hypothesized that there would be an association between hypothyroidism and ovarian cysts and /or gall stones. Ultrasound is a good imaging modality to accurately image both of these pathologies.
Methodology: Ultrasound-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 202 patients recruited from the endocrinology OPD of which half were controls. Their clinical details, data on comorbidities and results of their screening ultrasound were compiled and subjected to statistical analyses.
Results and Discussion: Age group of patients was 19 to 52 years. Hypothyroid patients had a slightly higher BMI and were more likely to complain of easy fatigability (p-value 0.001), constipation (p-value 0.003), weight gain (p-value 0.000), lethargy (p-value 0.041) and menstrual disturbances (p-value 0.002). There was a slight but statistically insignificant increase in the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia in hypothyroid patients. There was a statistically significant association of hypothyroidism with gall stones (p-value 0.004), fatty liver (p-value 0.023). And the occurrence of both ovarian cysts and gall stones (p-value 0.009). Slightly increased prevalence of ovarian cysts (p-value 0.138) and polycystic ovarian morphology (p-value 0.121) was seen but it failed to reach statistical significance.
Conclusion: Hypothyroidism has a significant association with cholelithiasis. The study also highlights the association of hypothyroidism with fatty liver and the co-occurrence of both ovarian cysts and gall stones. Recognizing the role that hypothyroidism has in these pathologies can change management and improve overall patient outcomes.
