NEUROLOGICAL ESSENCE OF HYPOTHYROIDISM

Abstract

Thyroid disease commonly affects nervous system which can be easily recognized when there are frank signs of thyroid dysfunction. The clinical spectrum of hypothyroidism ranges from sub-clinical hypothyroidism to frank myxoedema coma in severe hypothyroidism. It is necessary to consider thyroid diseases in differential diagnosis when neurological manifestation express itself as unexplained encephalopathy, progressive cerebellar degeneration, polyneuropathy, psychosis or progressive cognitive decline and even dementia. Due to protean non-specic diverse manifestations, hypothyroidism may remain undiagnosed for many years hence proactive search and early replacement therapy helps in better therapeutic outcome. Congenital Hypothyroidism is potentially preventable and correctable form of metabolic cerebral disease and mental retardation necessitating neonatal screening for early detection and treatment.