노인에서 불현성(무증상) 갑상선기능 이상

Abstract

Subclinical thyroid dysfunction, including both subclinical hyperthyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism is biochemicallydefined as an abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and thyroid hormone level within its referencerange. The prevalence of this condition varies according to the reference range for TSH and geographic or demographicfactors, 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 diseaseand be associated with various health outcomes. However, to date, supporting data are lacking and levels of evidencefor the associations are different. Although the management of subclinical thyroid dysfunction is controversial, recommendationsare based on the degree to which TSH levels have deviated from normal, age, symptoms, and underlyingcomorbidities. Further studies are needed to inform how to best care for the elderly with subclinical thyroid dysfunction.