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Subclinical hypothyroidism and obesity — SCE Endocrinology MCQ

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EasyObesity/LipidSubclinical hypothyroidism and obesitySCE Endocrinology

A 37-year-old man has BMI 36 kg/m2 and fatigue. TSH is 5.1 mU/L, free T4 is normal and TPO antibodies are negative. He asks for levothyroxine to lose weight. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: C — Explain that thyroid hormone is not indicated for weight loss and repeat thyroid tests

Mild subclinical hypothyroidism is not an indication for thyroid hormone as a weight-loss drug. Repeating tests and assessing symptoms, antibodies and TSH trajectory is appropriate. Excess thyroid hormone can cause arrhythmia and bone loss.

Reference: NICE NG145; NICE NG246