Subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) is a common condition, with prevalence estimates ranging from 4-20%, depending on the population demographics. Although epidemiological analysis associates it with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, clinical practice guidelines express uncertainty about whether to monitor or to treat. As we await large-scale, well-designed randomised clinical trials regarding treatment of SH, a review of pathophysiological considerations may be informative to better understand this disorder.
Keywords: Subclinical hypothyroidism; adipocytes; cardiovascular disease; cholesterol; endothelial cells; inflammation; thyroid-stimulating hormone; vascular smooth muscle cells.