A Comparative Evaluation of Thyroid Disorders among the Patients of Cholelithiasis

Abstract

Background: Cholelithiasis is a prevalent biliary system pathology, particularly in Northern India, influenced by factors such as age, gender, and metabolic changes. Thyroid hormones play a critical role in cholesterol metabolism and biliary motility, suggesting a potential link between thyroid dysfunction and gallstone formation. This study aimed to evaluate the comparative occurrence of thyroid disorders among patients diagnosed with cholelithiasis.

Methods: This retrospective and observational study was conducted at MM Medical College and Hospital, Solan, involving 100 diagnosed cases of cholelithiasis in patients over 30 years of age. Biochemical parameters, specifically serum TSH, fT4, and fT3 levels, were analyzed to determine the thyroid profile of each participant.

Results: The study population was predominantly female (80%), with a mean age of 45.14 years; the 40-50 age group was the most affected. The findings revealed that 50% of the patients had deranged thyroid profiles. Specifically, 25% of the total participants were diagnosed with hypothyroidism, of which 60% were sub-clinical cases. Hyperthyroidism was identified in 10% of the participants. Conclusion: The study demonstrates a significant association between thyroid dysfunction and cholelithiasis, with half of the patients exhibiting abnormal thyroid levels. Hypothyroidism, in particular, contributes to gallstone development through hypercholesterolemia, reduced bile flow, and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction. Consequently, serum TSH levels serve as an independent risk factor for the development of gallstones, highlighting the importance of thyroid screening in these patients