Abstract

Background: Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, independent of significant alcohol consumption. Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between hypothyroidism and NAFLD, although clinical data and the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear, particularly in the Indian population. Methods: We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional study involving 50 adult patients diagnosed with NAFLD through abdominal ultrasound at tertiary care hospital in eastern India. Patients were assessed for thyroid status using thyroid function tests (free T3, free T4, and TSH). Exclusion criteria included chronic hepatitis B or C, haemochromatosis, and use of certain medications. Results: The study revealed a significant association between serum Free T4 levels and the severity of fatty liver, with higher Free T4 levels correlating with lower grades of fatty liver. Serum TSH levels also demonstrated a significant association, with lower TSH levels corresponding to higher grades of fatty liver. Additionally, there was a notable prevalence of hypothyroidism among NAFLD patients, particularly in those with higher grades of fatty liver. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the importance of thyroid function in NAFLD, suggesting that thyroid status assessment, particularly in patients with moderate to severe fatty liver, may be clinically relevant. The prevalence of hypothyroidism among NAFLD patients underscores the need for further research to elucidate the potential therapeutic implications of thyroid hormone replacement in NAFLD management.

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