Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Internal Medicine

Background: Thyroid hormone has both genomic and non- genomic effect on blood vessels. It reduces systemic vascular resistance by multiple mechanisms.Hypothyroidism shares several mechanisms involved in the process of arterial wall stiffness. Among studies of hypothyroid patients, there is increased serum phosphorus levels. Calcification of vascular system is characterised by deposition of calcium phosphate, which can result in increased stiffness. Aims: to study brachial artery distensibility in hypothyroid patients and to correlate with serum calcium and phosphorus levels. Methods:The study included 33newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients and 33 age-matched healthy subjects.Subjects in both groups were examined for brachial artery distensibility. The groups will be compared with each other regarding the vascular study results that will be correlated with laboratory data in the studied patients. Results:There is a significant positive correlation of brachial artery diameter in all stages with both of TSH level and age.There is no statistically significance regarding brachial distensibility and serum calcium and phosphorus. Conclusions: Brachial artery distensibility is affected in hypothyroid patientswhichindicates positive correlation between arterial stiffness and hypothyroidism

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