Epidemiology of Thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin in Recent Onset Symptomatic Thyroid Eye Disease.

PURPOSE: This study aims to report correlations between thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin(TSI) and both clinical and radiological parameters in recent-onset symptomatic thyroid eye disease(TED) patients. METHODS: A prospective cohort study of TED patients managed at the Chinese University of Hong Kong from January 2014 to May 2022. Serum TSI levels were determined with the functional assay. Outcomes included the clinical activity score(CAS), marginal reflex distance1(MRD1), extraocular muscle motility restriction(EOMy), exophthalmos, and diplopia. The radiological assessment included cross-sectional areas and signal of extraocular muscles on STIR-sequence MRI. RESULTS: A total of 255(197female) treatment-naïve patients, with an average onset age of 50±14 years, were included. Elevated pre-treatment TSI level was observed in 223(88%) patients. There was a weak positive correlation between TSI and CAS(r=0.28, P=0.000031), MRD1(r=0.17, P=0.0080), and the size of the levator palpebrae superioris/superior rectus complex(r=0.25, P=0.018). No significant correlation existed between TSI and STIR signals. The AUC and optimal cut-off value for clinical active TED were 0.67(95% confidence interval:0.60-0.75) and 284%(Specificity:50%, sensitivity:85%). 64 patients received intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) during the study interval, and they had a higher baseline TSI level than those who did not have IVMP(P=0.000044). Serial post-IVMP TSI among the 62 patients showed a significant reduction compared to the baseline level(P<0.001). Both the baseline and post-IVMP TSI levels, and percentages of TSI changes were comparable between patients who responded and non-responded to the first course of IVMP. CONCLUSION: TSI can be a serum biomarker for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response of TED. Further validation should be further warranted.

A clinicopathological study of non-functioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumours using the World Health Organization 2022 classification.

Background: The 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of pituitary neuroendocrine tumour (PitNET) supersedes the previous one in 2017 and further consolidates the role of transcription factors (TF) in the diagnosis of PitNET. Here, we investigated the clinical utility of the 2022 WHO classification, as compared to that of 2017, in a cohort of patients with non-functioning PitNET (NF-PitNET). Methods: A total of 113 NF-PitNET patients who underwent resection between 2010 and 2021, and had follow-up at Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, were recruited. Surgical specimens were re-stained for the three TF: steroidogenic factor (SF-1), T-box family member TBX19 (TPIT) and POU class 1 homeobox 1 (Pit-1). The associations of different NF-PitNET subtypes with tumour-related outcomes were evaluated by logistic and Cox regression analyses. Results: Based on the 2022 WHO classification, the majority of NF-PitNET was SF-1-lineage tumours (58.4%), followed by TPIT-lineage tumours (18.6%), tumours with no distinct lineage (16.8%) and Pit-1-lineage tumours (6.2%). Despite fewer entities than the 2017 classification, significant differences in disease-free survival were present amongst these four subtypes (Log-rank test p=0.003), specifically between SF-1-lineage PitNET and PitNET without distinct lineage (Log-rank test p<0.001). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, the subtype of PitNET without distinct lineage (HR 3.02, 95% CI 1.28-7.16, p=0.012), together with tumour volume (HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.07, p=0.017), were independent predictors of a composite of residual or recurrent disease. Conclusion: The 2022 WHO classification of PitNET is a clinically useful TF and lineage-based system for subtyping NF-PitNET with different tumour behaviour and prognosis.

Serum thrombospondin-2 level changes with liver stiffness improvement in patients with type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: Baseline circulating thrombospondin-2 (TSP2) level was identified as a potential novel hepatic fibrosis biomarker that associates with development and progression of hepatic fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes. Here, we investigated whether circulating TSP2 levels changed with improvement in liver stiffness (LS), which reflects liver fibrosis on transient elastography. DESIGN: Serum TSP2 levels were measured in participants from a randomized, open-label intervention study, at baseline and after 24-weeks treatment of either dapagliflozin 10 mg (N = 30) or sitagliptin 100 mg daily (N = 30). Vibration-controlled transient elastography was performed to evaluate the severity of hepatic fibrosis and steatosis using LS and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), respectively. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS: Among all 60 participants with similar clinical characteristics at baseline (mean HbA1c 8.9%, CAP 289 dB/m and LS 5.8 kPa), despite similar HbA1c lowering, treatment with dapagliflozin, but not sitagliptin, led to significant improvements in body weight (BW) (p = .012), CAP (p = .015) and LS (p = .011) after 24 weeks. RESULTS: Serum TSP2 level decreased significantly from baseline in dapagliflozin-treated participants (p = .035), whereas no significant change was observed with sitagliptin. In correlation analysis, change in serum TSP2 levels only positively correlated with change in LS (r = .487, p = .006), but not with changes in BW, CAP or HbA1c after dapagliflozin treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Serum TSP2 level decreased with LS after dapagliflozin treatment, and was independent of improvements in BW, glycemic control and hepatic steatosis, further supporting the potential of serum TSP2 level as a novel hepatic fibrosis biomarker in type 2 diabetes.

Cushing's syndrome caused by ACTH precursors secreted from a pancreatic yolk sac tumor in an adult-a case report and literature review.

Here, we report the first adult case of pancreatic yolk sac tumor with ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) syndrome. The patient was a 27-year-old woman presenting with abdominal distension, Cushingoid features, and hyperpigmentation. Endogenous Cushing's syndrome was biochemically confirmed. The ACTH level was in the normal range, which raised the suspicion of ACTH precursor-dependent disease. Elevated ACTH precursors were detected, supporting the diagnosis of ectopic ACTH syndrome. Functional imaging followed by tissue sampling revealed a pancreatic yolk sac tumor. The final diagnosis was Cushing's syndrome due to a yolk sac tumor. The patient received a steroidogenesis inhibitor and subsequent bilateral adrenalectomy for control of hypercortisolism. Her yolk sac tumor was treated with chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Cushing's syndrome secondary to a yolk sac tumor is extremely rare. This case illustrated the utility of ACTH precursor measurement in confirming an ACTH-related pathology and distinguishing an ectopic from a pituitary source for Cushing's syndrome.

A prospective follow-up of thyroid volume and thyroiditis features on ultrasonography among survivors of predominantly mild to moderate COVID-19.

Background: We previously showed that higher SARS-CoV-2 viral load correlated with smaller thyroid volumes among COVID-19 survivors at 2 months after acute COVID-19. Our current follow-up study evaluated the evolution of thyroid volumes and thyroiditis features within the same group of patients 6 months later. Methods: Adult COVID-19 survivors who underwent thyroid ultrasonography 2 months after infection (USG1) were recruited for follow-up USG 6 months later (USG2). The primary outcome was the change in thyroid volume. We also reassessed thyroiditis features on USG, thyroid function and anti-thyroid antibodies. Results: Fifty-four patients were recruited (mean age 48.1 years; 63% men). The mean thyroid volume increased from USG1 to USG2 (11.9 ± 4.8 to 14.5 ± 6.2 mL, p < 0.001). Thirty-two patients (59.3%) had significant increase in thyroid volume by ≥15%, and they had a median increase of +33.3% (IQR: +20.0% to +45.0%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that only higher baseline SARS-CoV-2 viral load independently correlated with significant thyroid volume increase on USG2 (p = 0.022). Among the seven patients with thyroiditis features on USG1, six (85.7%) had the features resolved on USG2. None had new thyroiditis features on USG2. All abnormal thyroid function during acute COVID-19 resolved upon USG1 and USG2. Conclusion: Most COVID-19 survivors had an increase in thyroid volume from early convalescent phase to later convalescent phase. This increase correlated with high initial SARS-CoV-2 viral load. Together with the resolution of thyroiditis features, these may suggest a transient direct atrophic effect of SARS-CoV-2 on the thyroid gland with subsequent recovery of thyroid volume and thyroiditis features.

A prospective follow-up on thyroid function, thyroid autoimmunity and long COVID among 250 COVID-19 survivors.

PURPOSE: We evaluated the evolution of thyroid function and autoimmunity among COVID-19 survivors over 6 months in relation to interferon beta-1b treatment and long COVID. METHODS: We included COVID-19 survivors managed in a major COVID-19 centre between July 2020 and May 2021 who were reassessed three and/or six months after acute COVID-19. Thyroid function tests (TFTs) and anti-thyroid antibody titres were measured at acute COVID-19, 3-month and 6-month. RESULTS: 250 COVID-19 survivors were included (mean age 52.7 years, 50.4% men). Persistent thyroid function abnormalities were more likely in those with abnormal TFTs in acute COVID-19 (P < 0.001). Among 51 patients with abnormal TFTs in acute COVID-19, 82.4% resolved upon follow-up. Of 199 patients with normal TFTs in acute COVID-19, only 4.5% had incident abnormal TFTs, more likely in interferon-treated patients (P = 0.044) and none clinically overt. Among 129 patients with complete 6-month follow-up for anti-thyroid antibody titres, there was no significant change overall, except for modest increase in anti-thyroid antibody titres among the 84 interferon-treated patients (P < 0.05 at both 3 months and 6 months). Long COVID occurred in 19.5% and 10.4% at 3 and 6 months respectively, where TFTs and anti-thyroid antibody titres were not predictive of its occurrence. CONCLUSION: Over 6 months, most abnormal TFTs in acute COVID-19 resolved, with no significant incident thyroid dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 infection did not lead to change in thyroid autoimmunity, while interferon treatment was associated with modest increase in anti-thyroid antibody titres. Thyroid function and anti-thyroid antibodies did not play a significant role in long COVID.

Pathophysiology of thyroid-associated orbitopathy.

Thyroid-associated orbitopathy, the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease, is characterized by orbital inflammatory infiltration and activation of orbital fibroblasts, which mediates de novo adipogenesis, excessive production of hyaluronan, myofibroblast differentiation and ultimately tissue fibrosis. Interactions among T cells, B cells, and orbital fibroblasts result in their activation and perpetuation of orbital inflammation as well as tissue remodelling. T helper 17 cells belong to a newly identified pathogenic CD4+ T cell subset which possesses prominent pro-inflammatory and profibrotic capabilities. Thyroid stimulating hormone receptor/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor crosstalk and the downstream signalling pathways of both receptors represent the major mechanisms leading to activation of orbital fibroblasts. Thyroid stimulating hormone receptor autoantibody is the disease specific biomarker of great clinical relevance and utility. There is growing evidence that oxidative stress, gut microbiome and epigenetics also play a role in the pathogenesis and their manipulation may represent novel therapeutic strategies.

Effect of Inactivated and mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination on Thyroid Function Among Patients Treated for Hyperthyroidism.

CONTEXT: Reports of thyroid dysfunction following COVID-19 vaccination included cases of relapse of Graves' disease and worsening of pre-existing Graves' disease. Little is known about the thyroid-specific outcomes among patients treated for hyperthyroidism who have received COVID-19 vaccination. OBJECTIVE: Among patients treated for hyperthyroidism, we evaluated factors associated with not receiving the COVID-19 vaccination and whether COVID-19 vaccination was associated with thyroid function instability. METHODS: We included consecutive patients treated for hyperthyroidism attending the thyroid clinic at a teaching hospital between January and September 2021. They were categorized into vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. The index date was the date of first-dose vaccination for the vaccinated group, and the first date of attendance in the inclusion period for the unvaccinated group. They were followed up until March 2022 or occurrence of thyroid function instability (worsening of thyroid function/increase in antithyroid drug dosage), whichever was earlier. RESULTS: A total of 910 patients were included (mean age 51.6 years; 82.1% female). Of these, 86.2% had Graves disease and 67.3% were vaccinated (67.3% BNT162b2; 30.6% CoronaVac; 2.1% heterologous). Abnormal thyroid function and cardiovascular comorbidities were independently associated with unvaccinated status. Upon median follow-up of 5.3 months, thyroid function instability occurred in 15.9% of patients. COVID-19 vaccination did not increase risks of thyroid function instability (hazard ratio 0.78, 95% CI 0.56-1.09, P = .151); this was consistent in Graves disease, both types of vaccines, and regardless of whether baseline thyroid function was normal. Twenty-seven patients overtly thyrotoxic at the time of vaccination received COVID-19 vaccines without triggering a thyroid storm or difficulty in subsequent thyroid function control. CONCLUSION: Among patients treated for hyperthyroidism, abnormal thyroid function was a factor predicting unvaccinated status. Our results should encourage patients treated for hyperthyroidism to receive COVID-19 vaccination to protect themselves from adverse outcomes and potential long-term sequelae of COVID-19.

A Multicenter, Single-Blind, Case-Control, Immunohistochemical Study of Orbital Tissue in Thyroid Eye Disease.

Background: Thyroid eye disease (TED) involves several pathogenic pathways and a battery of infiltrating mononuclear cells, cytokines, and chemokines in the orbit. Revealing the main molecules, which play a major role in the pathogenesis of TED, will help developing novel treatment strategies. Methods: In a multicenter, single-blind, case-control study, 60 tissue samples were collected during orbital decompression (44 TED patients) or non-TED related oculoplastic (16 controls) surgeries. Formalin-fixation and paraffin embedding preserved orbital tissue. Tissue sections were immunostained with 18 antibodies by the micro-polymer labeling technique. Immunostaining slides were scanned by Panoramic Desk and blindly evaluated by a user-independent viewer software. Results: Marked lymphocyte infiltration was observed in orbital tissue specimens of patients with clinically active TED (n = 22) and to a much lesser extent in inactive cases (n = 22), while it was absent in controls. Increased vascularity was noted in all samples, with orbital congestion in specimens of clinically active TED. Tissue fibrosis was present in TED samples but not in controls. Immunohistochemistry of orbital tissue clearly differentiated between TED and controls, as well as between active and inactive TED. In contrast to controls and with the exception of cluster of differentiation 20 (CD20), 17 out of 18 antibodies were highly expressed in orbital connective tissue of TED patients. Especially, thyrotropin receptor (TSH-R), insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), CD40, cluster of differentiation 40 ligand (CD40L), CD3, CD68, interleukin-17A (IL-17A), IL-23A, IL-1ß, IL-4, regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), IL-16, and B cell activating factor (BAFF) were overexpressed in clinically active TED (all p < 0.001). Also, the expression of CD40L, IL-17A, IL-23A, IL-6, IL-1ß, RANTES, and BAFF was very high (TED/control ratio >3), moderate (ratio >2), and low in active (p < 0.001), inactive TED and controls, respectively. The expression of TSH-R, IGF-1R, CD40, CD40L, CD3, CD68, CD20, IL-17A, IL-23A, RANTES, MCP-1, and BAFF positively and significantly correlated with both serum TSH-R stimulatory antibody concentrations and clinical activity scores while it negatively correlated with TED duration. Orbital irradiation decreased TSH-R (p < 0.001) and IGF-1R expression (p = 0.012); in contrast, neither smoking, age, nor gender did impact immunohistochemical staining. Conclusions: Adaptive and cell-mediated immunity, overexpression of TSH-R/IGF-1R and CD40/CD40L are the relevant pathomechanisms in TED. Targeting these key players in the active phase of the disease offers specific and novel treatment approaches.

Case Report: Insulinoma Co-Existing With Type 2 Diabetes - Advantages and Challenges of Treatment With Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation.

The coexistence of insulinoma and type 2 diabetes is rare and the diagnostic process is often challenging. Continuous glucose monitoring system devices, which are more readily available nowadays, provide a useful tool for the diagnosis and evaluation of treatment response. Curative surgery is often the mainstay of treatment for insulinoma. Here, we report a Chinese patient with insulinoma diagnosed simultaneously with type 2 diabetes. His insulinoma was managed with endoscopic ultrasound guided-radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) and the patient achieved complete resolution of hypoglycaemic episodes. The case illustrates that while EUS-RFA is an emerging non-invasive treatment modality for pancreatic lesions, limitations exist especially when histological confirmation is essential.

Effect of COVID-19 Vaccines on Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity and Effect of Thyroid Autoimmunity on Antibody Response.

CONTEXT: There are concerns for COVID-19 vaccination in triggering thyroid autoimmunity and causing thyroid dysfunction. Also, data on the effect of preexisting thyroid autoimmunity on the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination are limited. OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on thyroid function and antibodies, and the influence of preexisting thyroid autoimmunity on neutralizing antibody (NAb) responses. METHODS: Adults without a history of COVID-19/thyroid disorders who received the COVID-19 vaccination during June to August 2021 were recruited. All received 2 doses of vaccines. Thyrotropin (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), free 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (fT3), antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO), and antithyroglobulin (anti-Tg) antibodies were measured at baseline and 8 weeks post vaccination. NAb against SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain was measured. RESULTS: A total of 215 individuals were included (129 [60%] BNT162b2; 86 [40%] CoronaVac recipients): mean age 49.6 years, 37.2% men, and 12.1% anti-TPO/Tg positive at baseline. After vaccination, TSH did not change (P = .225), but fT4 slightly increased (from 12.0 ±â€…1.1 to 12.2 ±â€…1.2 pmol/L [from 0.93 ±â€…0.09 to 0.95 ±â€…0.09 ng/dL], P < .001) and fT3 slightly decreased (from 4.1 ±â€…0.4 to 4.0 ±â€…0.4 pmol/L [from 2.67 ±â€…0.26 to 2.60 ±â€…0.26 pg/mL], P < .001). Only 3 patients (1.4%) had abnormal thyroid function post vaccination, none clinically overt. Anti-TPO and anti-Tg titers increased modestly after vaccination (P < .001), without statistically significant changes in anti-TPO/Tg positivity. Changes in thyroid function and antithyroid antibodies were consistent between BNT162b2 and CoronaVac recipients, except for greater anti-TPO titer increase post BNT162b2 (P < .001). NAb responses were similar between individuals with and without preexisting thyroid autoimmunity (P = .855). CONCLUSION: COVID-19 vaccination was associated with a modest increase in antithyroid antibody titers. Anti-TPO increase was greater among BNT162b2 recipients. However, there was no clinically significant thyroid dysfunction post vaccination. NAb responses were not influenced by preexisting thyroid autoimmunity. Our results provide important reassurance for people to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.

Comparison of Serum Ketone Levels and Cardiometabolic Efficacy of Dapagliflozin versus Sitagliptin among Insulin-Treated Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

BACKGROUND: Insulin-treated patients with long duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at increased risk of ketoacidosis related to sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i). The extent of circulating ketone elevation in these patients remains unknown. We conducted this study to compare the serum ketone response between dapagliflozin, an SGLT2i, and sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, among insulin-treated T2DM patients. METHODS: This was a randomized, open-label, active comparator-controlled study involving 60 insulin-treated T2DM patients. Participants were randomized 1:1 for 24-week of dapagliflozin 10 mg daily or sitagliptin 100 mg daily. Serum ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels were measured at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks after intervention. Comprehensive cardiometabolic assessments were performed with measurements of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC), vibration-controlled transient elastography and echocardiography. RESULTS: Among these 60 insulin-treated participants (mean age 58.8 years, diabetes duration 18.2 years, glycosylated hemoglobin 8.87%), as compared with sitagliptin, serum BHB levels increased significantly after 24 weeks of dapagliflozin (P=0.045), with a median of 27% increase from baseline. Change in serum BHB levels correlated significantly with change in free fatty acid levels. Despite similar glucose lowering, dapagliflozin led to significant improvements in body weight (P=0.006), waist circumference (P=0.028), HDL-C (P=0.041), CEC (P=0.045), controlled attenuation parameter (P=0.007), and liver stiffness (P=0.022). Average E/e', an echocardiographic index of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, was also significantly lower at 24 weeks in participants treated with dapagliflozin (P=0.037). CONCLUSION: Among insulin-treated T2DM patients with long diabetes duration, compared to sitagliptin, dapagliflozin modestly increased ketone levels and was associated with cardiometabolic benefits.

A prospective study of the impact of glycaemic status on clinical outcomes and anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses among patients with predominantly non-severe COVID-19.

AIMS: We carried out this prospective study of predominantly non-severe COVID-19 patients, to evaluate the influence of glycaemic status on clinical outcomes and neutralising antibody (Nab) responses, potentially relevant to the COVID-19 vaccination programme. METHODS: We included consecutive adults admitted to Queen Mary Hospital for COVID-19 from July 2020-May 2021. Glycaemic status was defined by admission HbA1c. Clinical deterioration was defined by radiological progression/new oxygen requirement/intensive care requirement/death. COVID-19 survivors had Nab measurements at 1-month, 2-month, 3-month and 6-month post-discharge. RESULTS: Among 605 patients (96.9% non-severe COVID-19; 325 normoglycaemia, 185 prediabetes, 95 diabetes), 74 (12.2%) had clinical deterioration, more likely with worse glycaemic status and higher HbA1c (p < 0.001). Older age (p < 0.001), higher viral loads (p < 0.001), higher C-reactive protein (CRP) (p < 0.001) and symptomatic presentation (p = 0.008), but not glycaemic status/HbA1c, independently predicted clinical deterioration. Older age (p = 0.001), higher CRP (p = 0.038), elevated lactate dehydrogenase (p = 0.046) and interferon treatment (p = 0.001), but not glycaemic status/HbA1c, independently predicted Nab titres. Rate of Nab titre decline was comparable across glycaemic status. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 patients with worse glycaemic status were more likely to deteriorate clinically, mediated through the association of worse glycaemic status with older age, more severe inflammation and higher viral loads. Importantly, Nab responses did not differ across glycaemic status.

Development of Graves' Disease After SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccination: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Background: Mounting evidence has revealed the interrelationship between thyroid and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to explain the thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune thyroid disorders observed after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). There are limited reports of thyroid dysfunction after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Methods: We report a case of a 40-year-old Chinese woman who developed Graves' disease after BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. A search of PubMed and Embase databases from 1 September 2019 to 31 August 2021 was performed using the following keywords: "COVID," "vaccine," "thyroid," "thyroiditis," and "Graves." Results: A 40-year-old Chinese woman who had 8-year history of hypothyroidism requiring thyroxine replacement. Her anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies were negative at diagnosis. She received her first and second doses of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine on 6 April and 1 May 2021, respectively. She developed thyrotoxicosis and was diagnosed to have Graves' disease 5 weeks after the second dose of vaccine, with positive thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin level, diffuse goiter with hypervascularity on thyroid ultrasonography and diffusely increased thyroid uptake on technetium thyroid scan. Both anti-thyroid peroxidase and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies became positive. She was treated with carbimazole. Literature search revealed four cases of Graves' disease after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, all after mRNA vaccines; and nine cases of subacute thyroiditis, after different types of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Conclusion: Our case represents the fifth in the literature of Graves' disease after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, with an unusual presentation on a longstanding history of hypothyroidism. Clinicians should remain vigilant about potential thyroid dysfunction after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in the current pandemic.

The Impact of Interferon Beta-1b Therapy on Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity Among COVID-19 Survivors.

Background: Some studies have indicated that interferon (IFN) may be valuable in COVID-19. We aimed to evaluate the impact of short-term IFN on incident thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity among COVID-19 survivors. Methods: We included consecutive adults without known thyroid disorder admitted to Queen Mary Hospital for COVID-19 from July 2020 to January 2021 who had thyroid function tests (TFTs) and anti-thyroid antibodies measured both on admission and at three months. Results: 226 patients were included (median age 55.0 years; 49.6% men): 135 were IFN-treated. There tended to be more abnormal TFTs upon reassessment in IFN-treated patients (8.1% vs 2.2%, p=0.080). 179 patients (65.4% IFN-treated) had a complete reassessment of anti-thyroid antibodies. There were significant increases in titres of both anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO: baseline 29.21 units [IQR: 14.97 - 67.14] vs reassessment 34.30 units [IQR: 18.82 - 94.65], p<0.001) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (anti-Tg: baseline 8.23 units [IQR: 5.40 - 18.44] vs reassessment 9.14 units [IQR: 6.83 - 17.17], p=0.001) in the IFN-treated group but not IFN-naïve group. IFN treatment (standardised beta 0.245, p=0.001) was independently associated with changes in anti-TPO titre. Of the 143 patients negative for anti-TPO at baseline, 8 became anti-TPO positive upon reassessment (seven IFN-treated; one IFN-naïve). Incident anti-TPO positivity was more likely to be associated with abnormal TFTs upon reassessment (phi 0.188, p=0.025). Conclusion: IFN for COVID-19 was associated with modest increases in anti-thyroid antibody titres, and a trend of more incident anti-TPO positivity and abnormal TFTs during convalescence. Our findings suggest that clinicians monitor the thyroid function and anti-thyroid antibodies among IFN-treated COVID-19 survivors, and call for further follow-up studies regarding the clinical significance of these changes.

Higher SARS-CoV-2 viral loads correlated with smaller thyroid volumes on ultrasound among male COVID-19 survivors.

PURPOSE: Thyroid dysfunction, including thyroiditis, is well recognized in COVID-19 patients. We evaluated thyroid ultrasonographic features among COVID-19 survivors, which are less well known. METHODS: Adult COVID-19 survivors without known thyroid disorders who attended dedicated COVID-19 clinic underwent thyroid ultrasonography and assessment of thyroid function and autoimmunity. Adults admitted for acute non-thyroidal surgical problems and negative for COVID-19 were recruited as control. SARS-CoV-2 viral load (VL) was presented as the inverse of cycle threshold values from the real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction of the respiratory specimen on admission. RESULTS: In total, 79 COVID-19 patients and 44 non-COVID-19 controls were included. All abnormal thyroid function tests during acute COVID-19 recovered upon follow-up. Thyroid ultrasonography was performed at a median of 67 days after acute COVID-19. The median thyroid volume was 9.73 mL (IQR: 7.87-13.70). In multivariable linear regression, SARS-CoV-2 VL on presentation (standardized beta -0.206, p = 0.042) inversely correlated with thyroid volume, in addition to body mass index at the time of ultrasonography (p < 0.001). Sex-specific analysis revealed similar results among men but not women. Eleven COVID-19 patients (13.9%) had ultrasonographic changes suggestive of thyroiditis, comparable to non-COVID-19 patients (p = 0.375). None of these 11 patients had isolated low thyroid-stimulating hormone levels suggestive of thyroiditis at initial admission or the time of ultrasonography. CONCLUSIONS: Higher SARS-CoV-2 VL on presentation were associated with smaller thyroid volumes, especially in men. Further research is suggested to investigate this possible direct viral effect of SARS-CoV-2 on the thyroid gland. There was no increased rate of ultrasonographic features suggestive of thyroiditis in COVID-19 survivors.

Long COVID in Patients With Mild to Moderate Disease: Do Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity Play a Role?

OBJECTIVE: Post-acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) or long COVID (LC) is an emerging global health issue. Fatigue is a common feature. Whether thyroid function and autoimmunity play a role is uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of LC and the potential role of thyroid function and autoimmunity in LC. METHODS: We included consecutive adults without a known thyroid disorder who were admitted to a major COVID-19 center for confirmed COVID-19 from July to December 2020. Thyroid function tests and antithyroid antibodies were measured for all patients on admission and at follow-up. LC was defined by the presence or persistence of symptoms upon follow-up. RESULTS: In total, 204 patients (median age, 55.0 years; 95 men [46.6%]) were reassessed at a median of 89 days (interquartile range, 69-99) after acute COVID-19. Of the 204 patients, 41 (20.1%) had LC. Female sex (adjusted odds ratio, 2.48; P = .018) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 polymerase chain reaction cycle threshold value of <25 on admission (adjusted odds ratio, 2.84; P = .012) independently predicted the occurrence of LC. Upon follow-up, most abnormal thyroid function tests in acute COVID-19 resolved, and incident thyroid dysfunction was rare. Nonetheless, we observed incident antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) positivity. Although baseline or follow-up thyroid function tests were not associated with the occurrence of LC, among 172 patients with symptomatic acute COVID-19, symptom resolution was more likely in those with positive anti-TPO upon follow-up (P = .043). CONCLUSION: LC is common among COVID-19 survivors, with females and those with higher viral load in acute COVID-19 particularly being vulnerable. The observation of incident anti-TPO positivity warrants further follow-up for thyroid dysfunction. Whether anti-TPO plays a protective role in LC remains to be elucidated.

Insights from a Prospective Follow-up of Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity among COVID-19 Survivors.

BACKGROUND: The occurrence of Graves' disease and Hashimoto thyroiditis after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) raised concerns that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may trigger thyroid autoimmunity. We aimed to address the current uncertainties regarding incident thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity among COVID-19 survivors. METHODS: We included consecutive adult COVID-19 patients without known thyroid disorders, who were admitted to Queen Mary Hospital from July 21 to September 21, 2020 and had serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, free triiodothyronine (fT3), and anti-thyroid antibodies measured both on admission and at 3 months. RESULTS: In total, 122 patients were included. Among 20 patients with abnormal thyroid function tests (TFTs) on admission (mostly low fT3), 15 recovered. Among 102 patients with initial normal TFTs, two had new-onset abnormalities that could represent different phases of thyroiditis. Among 104 patients whose anti-thyroid antibody titers were reassessed, we observed increases in anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) (P<0.001) and anti-thyroglobulin (P<0.001), but not anti-thyroid stimulating hormone receptor titers (P=0.486). Of 82 patients with negative anti-TPO findings at baseline, 16 had a significant interval increase in anti-TPO titer by >12 U, and four became anti-TPO-positive. Worse baseline clinical severity (P=0.018), elevated C-reactive protein during hospitalization (P=0.033), and higher baseline anti-TPO titer (P=0.005) were associated with a significant increase in anti-TPO titer. CONCLUSION: Most patients with thyroid dysfunction on admission recovered during convalescence. Abnormal TFTs suggestive of thyroiditis occurred during convalescence, but infrequently. Importantly, our novel observation of an increase in anti-thyroid antibody titers post-COVID-19 warrants further follow-up for incident thyroid dysfunction among COVID-19 survivors.

Role of non-thyroidal illness syndrome in predicting adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients predominantly of mild-to-moderate severity.

OBJECTIVE: Existing studies reported the potential prognostic role of non-thyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS), characterized by low triiodothyronine (T3) with normal/low thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), mainly in severe COVID-19. None considered the significant impact of SARS-CoV-2 viral load on adverse outcomes. We aimed to clarify the prognostic role of NTIS among predominantly mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients. DESIGN: A prospective study of COVID-19 patients. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS: Consecutive adults admitted to Queen Mary Hospital for confirmed COVID-19 from July to December 2020 were prospectively recruited. SARS-CoV-2 viral load was represented by cycle threshold (Ct) values from real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction of the respiratory specimen on admission. Serum TSH, free thyroxine and free T3 were measured on admission. The outcome was deterioration in clinical severity, defined as worsening in ≥1 category of clinical severity according to the Chinese National Health Commission guideline. RESULTS: We recruited 367 patients. At baseline, 75.2% had mild disease, and 27 patients (7.4%) had NTIS. Fifty-three patients (14.4%) had clinical deterioration. Patients with NTIS were older, had more comorbidities, worse symptomatology, higher SARS-CoV-2 viral loads and worse profiles of inflammatory and tissue injury markers. They were more likely to have clinical deterioration (p < .001). In multivariable stepwise logistic regression analysis, NTIS independently predicted clinical deterioration (adjusted odds ratio 3.19, p = .017), in addition to Ct value <25 (p < .001), elevated C-reactive protein (p = .004), age >50 years (p = .011) and elevated creatine kinase (p = .017). CONCLUSIONS: Non-thyroidal illness syndrome was not uncommon even in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients. NTIS on admission could predict clinical deterioration in COVID-19, independent of SARS-CoV-2 viral load, age and markers of inflammation and tissue injury.