In a nutshell
This study investigated if thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are associated with a greater risk of death following a heart attack. They found that elevated TSH was associated with a greater risk of death following a heart attack.
Some background
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by the pituitary gland (in the head). It regulates the production of thyroid hormones in the thyroid gland. If the thyroid produces too little of thyroid hormones it is called hypothyroidism. This results in high TSH levels.
Changes in TSH levels can affect cardiovascular health (heart and circulatory system). It can cause high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the clinical term for a heart attack. It is unclear if TSH levels are associated with a greater risk of death after AMI.
Methods & findings
This study included the medical records of 1977 patients with AMI. Levels of TSH and thyroid hormones were analyzed. Patients were categorized as ‘normal TSH’ (1846) or ‘elevated TSH’ (131). The average follow-up time was 3.5 years after AMI.
Cardiovascular mortality rates (the risk of death due to heart and blood vessel disease) were higher in the elevated TSH group (9.2%) compared to normal TSH patients (4.6%). Elevated TSH was associated with 56% greater risk of mortality of all causes after AMI.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that elevated TSH levels following a heart attack were associated with a greater risk of death.
The fine print
The number of patients with elevated TSH was relatively small. Also, this study looked back on data from medical records. Some information might have been incomplete. This could have changed the results.
Many factors can affect thyroid function including diet and alcohol consumption. This data was not available in this study.
What’s next?
If you have concerns regarding your thyroid function please discuss with your doctor.
Published By :
Clinical cardiology
Date :
Aug 24, 2018
