Liver Function in Non - Pregnant Hyperthyroid Women: a Hospital Based Cross Sectional study from Northern Pakistan

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Functions of almost all body cells and organs are influenced by thyroid hormones; therefore malfunction of thyroid gland may cause serious clinical problems affecting major organs like liver and kidney. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of hyperthyroidism on liver function. METHODOLOGY: This hospital- based cross sectional study was conducted on 163 non-pregnant women in the age group of 18-75 years to evaluate the effects of hyperthyroidism on the biochemical markers of liver function. Serum T3, T4, TSH and liver function tests were carried out using standard methods and kits. RESULTS: No significance differences were found in the ALT (AlanineTransaminase) and AST (Aspartate Transaminase) level in all the three groups. ALT level was found to be 33.14 ±2.98 in OH (Overtly hyperthyroid), 29.50±1.69 in SH (Sub clinically hyperthyroid) group as compared to 29.69 ±3.28 IU/L in N (Normal) group. AST(Aspartate Transaminase) level was 33.70 ±5.12 I U/L in N group, 30.68 ±2.7 in OH group and 30.38 ±2.6 I U/L in SH group. Avery significant positive correlation was found between AST and TSH in the N group (p= 0.002) and BMI and T3 in N and OH group respectively (p=0.01). No significant correlation was found between liver enzymes and thyroid profile markers in any of the study groups. CONCLUSION: The study shows that hyperthyroidism has no severe effects on liver function.