Dyslipidemia in patients with thyroid disorders.

Thyroid disorders are known to influence lipid metabolism and are common in dyslipidemic patients. Overt and subclinical hypothyroidism have an adverse effect on the serum lipid profile that may predispose to the development of atherosclerotic disease. Although thyroid substitution therapy is beneficial for patients with overt hypothyroidism, the question of whether subclinical hypothyroidism must be treated remains unanswered. The association between thyroid autoimmunity and lipoprotein (a) levels is controversial. Hyperthyroidism may be the underlying cause for acquired hypocholesterolemia or unexpected improvement of the lipid profile of a previously hyperlipidemic patient.