JustThe term subclinical hypothyroidism indicates a normal level of T4 and T3, with a high TSH. When treatment is needed, levothyroxine is the drug of choice. Not all cases need therapy. There is some evidence that excessive therapy is occurring. A 36-year-old lady comes with a history of dyslipidemia. The total cholesterol levels are high, the HDL is normal and importantly the serum LDL is 198 mg/dl and the serum triglycerides are 290 mg/dl.
Though she has no other symptoms - thyroid function test is ordered and shows a TSH of 8 uIU/ml (normal is 0.4 to 4.2 uIU/ml), while T3 and T4 are within the normal range. There is a strong family history of coronary artery disease. All other tests, clinical assessments are unremarkable. In this hypothetical case scenario of subclinical hypothyroidism with dyslipidemia- some would consider starting levothyroxine and statins together. However…
