Primary hypothyroidism and quality of life

In the 1970s, treatment with thyroid extract was superseded by levothyroxine, a synthetic l form of tetraiodothyronine. Since then, no major innovation has emerged for the treatment of hypothyroidism. The biochemical definition of subclinical hypothyroidism is a matter of debate. Indiscriminate screening for hypothyroidism has led to overdiagnosis and treatment initiation at lower serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) than previously. Adverse health effects have been documented in individuals with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and these adverse effects can affect health-related quality of life (QOL). Levothyroxine substitution improves, but does not always normalize, QOL, especially for individuals with mild hypothyroidism. However, neither studies combining levothyroxine and liothyronine (the synthetic form of tri-iodothyronine) nor the use of desiccated thyroid extract have shown robust improvements in patient satisfaction. Future studies should focus not only on a better understanding of an individual's TSH set point (the innate narrow physiological range of serum concentration of TSH in an individual, before the onset of hypothyroidism) and alternative thyroid hormone combinations and formulations, but also on autoimmunity and comorbidities unrelated to hypothyroidism as drivers of patient dissatisfaction. Attention to the long-term health consequences of hypothyroidism, beyond QOL, and the risks of overtreatment is imperative. Treatment of primary hypothyroidism is improving but many patients still report a reduced quality of life compared with healthy individuals. This Review discusses the management of primary hypothyroidism and the potential reasons for patient dissatisfaction with treatment.

Automated summary

The treatment of hypothyroidism has not seen major innovations since the 1970s when thyroid extract was replaced by levothyroxine. The definition of subclinical hypothyroidism is debated and indiscriminate screening has led to overdiagnosis and treatment initiation at lower TSH levels. While levothyroxine substitution can improve quality of life, it may not always normalize it, especially for individuals with mild hypothyroidism.