Thyroid function in obese children and adolescents and its relationships with metabolic parameters

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate freeT4 and TSH concentrations among children and adolescents with obesity, and to assess possible correlations between glucose and parameters of lipid metabolism.
METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 100 obese patients, aged between 8-18 years, was performed in the pediatric endocrinology outpatient clinic. The anthropometric measurements, free T4 and TSH concentrations, glucose levels and lipid profile of children and adolescents with obesity were determined.
RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 11.43 ± 2.64 years. Fasting blood glucose and cholesterol levels had a significant positive correlation with TSH levels, and multiple regression analysis revealed that 1 unit of increase in blood glucose and cholesterol increased TSH levels by 0.047 units and 0.012 units, respectively.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: There is still a lack of data regarding the relationship between thyroid function and other metabolic risk factors in children with obesity. Our findings add to the literature in terms of demonstrating that obesity may have a central effect on thyroid function, before any effects on insulin levels and anthropometric features become apparent. It is important to better understand the relationship between thyroid function and obesity in order to develop strategies to prevent or treat childhood obesity.