Association of Lipid Profile with Electrocardiographic Changes in Newly Diagnosed Hypothyroid Patients

Abstract

Background: Hypothyroidism, a common endocrine disorder, has a considerable impact on metabolic functions, including lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health.

Objective: To explore the relationship between lipid profile parameters and electrocardiogram (ECG) changes in newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients.

Methods: An observational study was conducted at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital from June 2022 to June 2024. A total of 82 newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients were included, with those having significant comorbidities excluded. Data on demographics, thyroid function tests, fasting lipid profiles, and ECG findings were collected and analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study cohort comprised 93.9% female participants, indicating a higher prevalence of hypothyroidism among women. The lipid profile revealed mean total cholesterol levels of 186.94 ± 27.33 mg/dL, LDL of 129.24 ± 30.13 mg/dL, and HDL of 34.96 ± 5.02 mg/dL. The most frequent ECG finding was normal sinus rhythm (81.71%), followed by low voltage complexes (15.85%). No significant correlation was observed between lipid parameters and ECG changes (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Dyslipidaemia is common in newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients; however, it does not appear to correlate with specific ECG abnormalities. These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment in such patients, extending beyond routine lipid and ECG evaluations.