The Relationship between Thyroid Hormones Levels and Liver Cirrhosis Prognosis Criteria and Complications: a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background:

The impact of thyroid function on the prognosis and complications of liver cirrhosis remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between thyroid hormones and cirrhosis prognosis and complications.

 Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2021 to March 2022 at  Imam Khomeini Hospital in Iran. A total of 100 patients with cirrhosis, aged 18 to 80 years, were recruited. The questionnaire designed for collecting data included patients' demographics, laboratory data, and criteria for cirrhosis progression.

Results:

The study revealed a significant correlation between the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and free tri-iodothyronine (FT3) (P=0.019). For each unit increase in FT3, the MELD score is expected to decrease by approximately 2.268 units. In men, there was a correlation between MELD and FT3 (P=0.033). Additionally, in women, there was a correlation between MELD and FT4 (P=0.03). MELD had a significant correlation with ascites and hepatic encephalopathy. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between FT3 and ascites and esophageal varices. Results of analysis of the relationship between FT3 and MELD components revealed a significant correlation between FT3 and bilirubin (P=0.001). Moreover, an inverse relationship was found between thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and international normalized ratio (INR) (P=0.03). High FT3 levels were found to be 15 times more frequent in Child-Pugh A and B patients compared to Child-Pugh C patients.

Conclusion:

FT3 is correlated with the MELD score and complications of cirrhosis. The value of FT3 can serve as a prognostic criterion. It is recommended to monitor thyroid levels in patients with cirrhosis and provide treatment if any disorder is detected.