PREVALENCE OF SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS WITH HIV: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN GUATEMALA

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1595322522103

• Palavras-chave: HIV, Thyroid dysfunction, Subclinical hypothyroidism, Pediatrics, Guatemala

• Keywords: HIV, Thyroid dysfunction, Subclinical hypothyroidism, Pediatrics, Guatemala

• Abstract:

  Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection leads to multi-organ involvement, including the endocrine system. Severe immunosuppression and advanced HIV disease may be associated with subclinical hypothyroidism (SH), which directly affects growth and development in children.  
  Methodology: A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted of 112 pediatric patients with HIV treated between 2008 and 2021 at the Comprehensive Care Unit for HIV and Chronic Infections at Roosevelt Hospital, analyzing epidemiological, clinical, immunological, virological, and hormon y data obtained from medical records.
  Results: 21.4% of patients had elevated TSH and 18.8% had subclinical hypothyroidism, of which 17.9% showed a need for levothyroxine supplementation. A higher prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was observed in patients with advanced clinical stages and high viral load.
  Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction is common in children with HIV, highlighting the need for early detection and timely intervention to improve the clinical prognosis and quality of life of this population.