Effect of Thyroxine and Thyrotropin on Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The effect of thyroid hormones on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women has been reported but is not completely established. To better understand this relationship, this systematic review of the reported association, differences, and effects of thyroxine and/or thyrotropin levels on bone mineral density was conducted. An electronic literature search was conducted on MEDLINE, PMC, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct from inception to April 2022; 20 studies were identified which include five quasiexperimental studies, three community cohort studies, and 12 hospital-based cross-sectional studies. Following an extensive evaluation, it was difficult to conclusively determine the association or effect of thyroxine or thyrotropin levels on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. It is therefore suggested to conduct additional non-randomized or randomized control studies on this topic for the benefit of postmenopausal women. Particular attention should be given to the adjustment of age, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and dietary calcium in future research on this topic for rigorous analysis.