Thyroid Profile of Psychiatric Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Khulna, Bangladesh

Background: The thyroid gland and its hormones are vital in organ development and physiological regulation across vertebrates. Thyroid disorders often manifest neuropsychiatric symptoms like depression and anxiety. Understanding the thyroid profile of psychiatric patients is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Studies suggest a significant association between psychiatric disorders and thyroid dysfunction, with higher prevalence in individuals with conditions like depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Aim of the Study: The aim of our study was to investigate the thyroid status and determine the prevalence of thyroid disorder among psychiatric patients in a specific area of Bangladesh.

Methods: A retrospective study conducted at Gazi Medical College and Hospital in Bangladesh from January 2021 to December 2023 involved 320 psychiatric patients. Blood samples for thyroid profile assessment were taken after an overnight fast and analyzed using specified reference ranges. Thyroid disorders were categorized based on hormone levels. Statistical analysis focused on data from patients completing a six-month follow-up, analyzed using SPSS software.

Results: Most participants are aged 21-30, with a mean age of 26.85 years. Males represent 52.5% of the population, females 45.31%, and others 2.19%. Unemployment at 29.38%, with 30.00% being students and 16.56% homemakers. Educational levels vary, with 40.00% below primary education and 17.50% being graduates. Thyroid levels vary widely, with mean FT3 levels at 1.66±1.47ng/ml, FT4 at 9.93±3.84μg/dL, and TSH at 5.88±3.87μg/dL. Hypothyroidism affects 77.41% of participants, hyperthyroidism 17.64%, and subclinical hypothyroidism 4.95%.

Conclusion: The prevalence of thyroid disorders among these patients is significant, with hyperthyroidism being the most common condition observed, followed by hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism.

Keywords: Thyroid Profile, Psychiatric Patients, FT3, FT4,TSH.