Purpose of review: To summarize recent developments in the association of thyroid function with metabolic syndrome (MetS).
Recent findings: Although thyroid hormones even within low normal range are associated with various metabolic abnormalities, the risk of MetS remains a controversial issue. Hyperthyroid state might be associated only with insulin resistance and dysglycemia. Autoimmune thyroid diseases may be a potential risk factor for metabolic abnormalities even in those with low normal thyroid function.
Summary: The interrelation between thyroid stimulating hormone, free T3, freeT4 and metabolic parameters is complex and might be affected by age, sex, BMI, insulin resistance, smoking, iodine intake and inflammatory markers.