From the Guidelines
Hypothyroidism can have a hereditary component, but it is not solely determined by genetics [ 1 ]. While some people may be more prone to developing hypothyroidism due to their family history, it is often triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as autoimmune disorders, thyroid surgery, or radiation therapy.
Key Factors
- Family history of thyroid disease is a risk factor for hypothyroidism [ 1 ]
- Autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto thyroiditis, can contribute to the development of hypothyroidism [ 1 ]
- Thyroid surgery or radiation therapy can also increase the risk of hypothyroidism [ 1 ] If you have a family history of hypothyroidism, it is essential to discuss your risk with your doctor and undergo regular thyroid function tests to monitor your thyroid hormone levels.
Treatment Options
- Medications like levothyroxine (50-200 mcg daily) may be prescribed to manage hypothyroidism [ 1 ]
- Treatment typically continues for life, with regular monitoring and adjustments to medication dosage as necessary to maintain normal thyroid hormone levels [ 1 ]
From the Research
Hereditary Components of Hypothyroidism
- Hypothyroidism can be caused by both thyroidal and extrathyroidal dysfunction, with specific intrathyroidal abnormalities in thyroid hormone synthesis leading to goitrous hypothyroidism 2.
- Genetic background is an important factor in hypothyroid patients, with certain genetic polymorphisms affecting the bioavailability of levothyroxine (L-T4) treatment 3.
- Central hypothyroidism (CH) can be hereditary, with alterations of genes such as TSHbeta and the TRH receptor responsible for the disorder, and can be isolated or associated with combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD) 4.
Genetic Causes of Congenital Hypothyroidism
- Congenital primary hypothyroidism (CH) is a state of inadequate thyroid hormone production detected at birth, caused by absent, underdeveloped, or ectopic thyroid gland (dysgenesis), or by defected thyroid hormone biosynthesis (dyshormonogenesis) 5.
- A genetic component has been identified in many cases of CH, with mutations in specific genes implicated in thyroid dysgenesis and dyshormonogenesis, such as TSHR, FOXE1, NKX2-1, PAX8, and NKX2-5 5, 6.
- The identification of the underlying genetic defects of CH is important for genetic counseling of families with an affected member, for identifying additional clinical characteristics or the risk for thyroid neoplasia, and for diagnostic and management purposes 5.