Hypothyroidism: An Important Diagnostic Consideration for the Psychiatrist
Hypothyroidism is a clinical state of thyroid hormone deficiency that may have a primary or secondary (central) cause. Primary hypothyroidism, which is more common than secondary hypothyroidism, is defined as failure of the thyroid gland to respond appropriately to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) produced in the anterior pituitary gland. Primary hypothyroidism can be caused by autoimmune disease (Hashimoto disease), iodine deficiency, or infiltrative diseases, or it can be caused iatrogenically by surgery or irradiation of the gland. Subclinical hypothyroidism refers to mildly increased TSH levels in the setting of normal thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels. Secondary hypothyroidism is defined as insufficient thyroid gland stimulation by the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
What new information does this article provide?
This article provides a simple and concise review of the varied physical and neuropsychiatric presentations of hypothyroidism and important diagnostic and treatment information.
What are the implications for psychiatric practice?
Hypothyroidism presents with a myriad of neuropsychiatric...