Diabetes Mellitus and Hypothyroidism: Features of Clinical and Pathogenetic Relationships
Roger Antonio Morais Queiroz *
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Carlos Eduardo Lima de Souza
Departament of Medicine, College Afya Palmas, Brazil.
Luana Letícia Machado Borba Khouri
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Sophya Vilhena Santos
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Gabriel Lima Barros
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Manoel Afonso Cândido Silva
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Mariana Lima Barros
Departament of Medicine, Federal University of Campina Grande, Brazil.
Eduardo de Paula Costa Toledo
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Kenia Dorneles Silva
Departament of Medicine, University of Gurupi, Brazil.
Laisa Vaz dos Santos
Universidade Estadual do Pará, Brazil.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This review aims to examine how the coexistence of type 2 diabetes and hypothyroidism exacerbates cardiovascular and metabolic complications, focusing on shared mechanisms like insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and chronic inflammation.
Study Design: Integrative literature review.
Place and Duration of Study: Database searches (PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase) were conducted between June 2024 and november 2024.
Methodology: The review highlights that hypothyroidism intensifies insulin resistance and dyslipidemia in type 2 diabetic patients, increasing LDL accumulation and reducing triglyceride clearance, thus raising the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular complications. Observed interactions were influenced by factors like age, sex, and existing comorbidities, affecting glycemic control and lipid metabolism. Studies also showed that chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress are elevated in patients with both conditions, worsening vascular health and accelerating the progression of complications.
Results: Findings indicate that patients with both type 2 diabetes and hypothyroidism exhibit significantly worsened cardiovascular and metabolic profiles, including a heightened risk of coronary artery disease, hypertension, and microvascular complications (e.g., retinopathy, nephropathy). These effects are mediated by increased insulin resistance and chronic inflammation.
Conclusion: Coexisting type 2 diabetes and hypothyroidism intensify cardiovascular and metabolic risks, necessitating an integrated, multidisciplinary management approach. Regular monitoring of glycemic, lipid, and hormonal levels is essential, alongside personalized adjustments in medication and lifestyle interventions. Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is required to refine management strategies and improve clinical outcomes.
Keywords: Type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular complications, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, chronic inflammation, multidisciplinary care