Thyroid hormones are metabolized by the liver and their systemic endocrine effects are regulated by it. Although, liver disorders may alter thyroid hormone metabolism, the majority of hepatic patients are clinically euthyroid. Some studies showed thyroid abnormalities in acute and chronic liver diseases. Thyroid hormone levels in the blood can range from normal to substantial abnormalities either euthyroid sick syndrome, autoimmune thyroid disorders or subclinical hypothyroidism.
Aim of the work
The aim of the study is to evaluate thyroid profile in children with chronic liver disease following up at the Pediatric Liver clinic at Alexandria University Children's Hospital.
Subjects and methods
An observational cross-sectional study including patients with chronic liver disease attending the Pediatric Liver clinic at Alexandria University Children's Hospital (AUCH). The research was done from June 2021 to June 2022. One hundred and two children with chronic liver disease were enrolled in this study. Patients were assessed on emphasis of: detailed history taking, clinical examination includes anthropometric measurements; body weight, height, BMI using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics reference range (CDC). Abdominal examination for the presence of hepatomegaly, splenomegaly or ascites. Manifestations of severity assessed by modified Child-Pugh classification. Furthermore, laboratory investigations in form of liver (SGPT, SGOT, GGT, ALP, TSB, DSB, Total protein, Albumin), lipid (Triglycerides and Cholesterol) and thyroid profiles (TSH, FT4, FT3, T3, T4).