Subclinical Thyroid Dysfunction in the Elderly

Ko, Ki Dong

doi:2014.18.3.111

Ann Geriatr Med Res > Volume 18(3); 2014 > Article

Review Article

Journal of the Korean Geriatrics Society 2014;18(3):111-121.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4235/jkgs.2014.18.3.111 Published online September 30, 2014.

Subclinical Thyroid Dysfunction in the Elderly

Ki Dong Ko

Department of Family Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea. highmove77@naver.com

노인에서 불현성(무증상) 갑상선기능 이상

고기동

가천의과학대학교 길병원 가정의학교실

Abstract

Subclinical thyroid dysfunction, including both subclinical hyperthyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism is biochemically defined as an abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and thyroid hormone level within its reference range. The prevalence of this condition varies according to the reference range for TSH and geographic or demographic factors, but is common in the elderly and in women. Subclinical thyroid dysfunction has various causes. Thus, careful clinical assessment is needed. Subclinical thyroid dysfunction can be likely to progress to overt thyroid disease and be associated with various health outcomes. However, to date, supporting data are lacking and levels of evidence for the associations are different. Although the management of subclinical thyroid dysfunction is controversial, recommendations are based on the degree to which TSH levels have deviated from normal, age, symptoms, and underlying comorbidities. Further studies are needed to inform how to best care for the elderly with subclinical thyroid dysfunction.

Key Words: Subclinical hypothyroidism, Subclinical hyperthyroidism, Elderly