Is subclinical hypothyroidism associated with cardiovascular disease in the elderly?

ABSTRACT: Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is diagnosed when thyroid function tests show that the serum thyrotropin (TSH) level is elevated and the serum free thyroxine (FT4) level is normal. SCH is mainly caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the prevalence of which increases with aging. Recently, it has been revealed that SCH is associated with risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia and hypertension, leading to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, there are still controversies regarding the diagnosis and treatment of SCH in elderly patients. In this review, we present recent evidence regarding the relationship between SCH and CVD and treatment recommendations for SCH, especially in elderly patients. Studies have shown that SCH is associate

SUBMITTER: Yamamoto K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12007877 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature