Article Text
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an inflammatory connective tissue disorder characterised by collagen proliferation, vascular damage and internal organ involvement. It is speculated that vascular changes in SSc patients may be at least partially secondary to impaired lipid metabolism. Hypothyroidism has been reported in patients with SSc and thyroid involvement may additionally effect lipid metabolism.
Objectives The aim of the present study was to evaluate the serum lipid profile in patients with SSc with regard to their thyreometabolic state.
Methods The group of 49 patients with SSc. (2 man and 47 woman) aged from 18 to 68 yrs (mean 48.16 ± 15,8 yrs) was investigated. Patient group with SSc comprised 13 patients with hypothyroidism and 36 patients with normal thyroid function. Nineteen volunteers (6 men and 13 women) were studied as a controls. Fasting serum total cholesterol, HDL and triglyceride levels as well as thyroid hormones were determined.
Results Increased cholesterol level was shown in patients with SSc. A significantly increased plasma triglyceride concentration and lower HDL level was found in hypothyroid SSc patients as compared to the SSc patients in euthyroid state. There was no differences in total cholesterol level between hypothyroid and euthyroid group of patients with SSC.
Conclusion
There is no correlation between hypercholesterolemia and thyreometabolic state in patients with SSc
Increased triglyceride level is secondary to impaired thyroid function in patients with SScc