Serum Total Triiodothyronine versus Free Tetraiodothyronine and TSH in Patients with HCV Related Cirrhosis and Their Correlation to the Severity of Cirrhosis

Abstract

Background and Aim: The levels of thyroid hormones and their binding proteins are altered in patient with cirrhosis. We aim to study the changes in triiodothyronine level in HCV related cirrhosis and its correlation to the severity of liver decompensation. Patients and Methods: This study included seventy two patients with HCV related cirrhosis in three groups Group I: 24 patients with Child A class Group II: 24 patients with Child B and C classes without hepatic encephalopathy Group III: 24 patients with Child B and C classes with hepatic encephalopathy. Results: T3 level was significantly lower in group III than group I and II (0.74 ng/ml vs 1 and 1.3 ng/ml in group II and I in succession). The correlation between Child's score and T3 level was highly significant (r = −0.64, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Triiodothyronine level is lower in cirrhosis and its level is correlated to the severity of decompensation.