Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hypothyroidism, a prevalent endocrine disorder, is associated with significant alterations in lipid metabolism and adipocytokine levels, particularly leptin and adiponectin, which may contribute to cardiovascular risk. The interrelation of thyroid hormones and adipocytokines remains inadequately explored. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the levels of leptin and adiponectin in newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients and their potential correlation with thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 subjects divided into two groups: 26 newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients (Group A) and 31 healthy controls (Group B). Anthropometric parameters, serum TSH, T3, T4, leptin, and adiponectin levels were measured using standardized ELISA techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 17.0. RESULTS: Adiponectin levels were significantly lower in hypothyroid patients compared to controls, suggesting a potential cardiovascular risk marker. Leptin levels were elevated in hypothyroid patients but did not reach statistical significance. Body mass index (BMI) was comparable across groups, minimizing confounding effects of obesity. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the significant reduction in adiponectin levels in hypothyroidism, reinforcing its potential role in cardiovascular risk. While leptin levels showed an increasing trend, further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm their significance.