TSH and free thyroxine concentrations are associated with differing metabolic markers in euthyroid subjects

Abstract

SCH is not associated with an increased risk for the metabolic syndrome (as conceived as a diagnostic category defined by the National Cholesterol, Education Program, Adult Treatment Panel III criteria). Despite this, low thyroid function (even in the euthyroid state) predisposes to higher cholesterol, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR levels. The combined use of TSH and FT(4), compared with the assessment based on only FT(4), is a more convenient approach to evaluate the association between thyroid function and metabolic variables.