Pathophysiological association between clinical hypothyroidism and metabolic syndrome: an integrative review

Adryelle Vieira Melo, Leonardo Gonçalves Lopes Borges, Thiago Dias Araújo, Irineu Rasera Jr Maranhão.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Thyroid dysfunction directly affects lipid and glucose metabolism, as well as blood pressure and body weight, factors linked to the development and worsening of metabolic syndrome (MS). Impaired thyroid function can alter key metabolic pathways, promoting the emergence of MS components. This study aims to investigate how both clinical and subclinical hypothyroidism interact with metabolic changes that contribute to the progression of MS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: based on an integrative literature review, with articles sourced from PubMED, LILACS, and SciELO databases, using keywords such as "hypothyroidism," "Hashimoto’s thyroiditis," "subclinical hypothyroidism," and "metabolic syndrome." Six articles were selected, highlighting the relationship between hypothyroidism and metabolic factors such as obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia. RESULTS: indicate that hypothyroidism is associated with MS through its negative influence on lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and abdominal fat accumulation. These alterations significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and other metabolic complications. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: In conclusion, hypothyroidism, particularly in its subclinical form, plays a significant role in increasing the risk of developing MS.