MORPHOLOGICAL AND HORMONAL CHANGES OF THE THYROID GLAND IN THE POPULATION OF POLOG AND ITS SURROUNDINGS IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA
Albulena BEADINI, Irfan AMETI, Sheqibe BEADINI, Adelina ELEZI, Albin BEADINI, Egzona ZIBERI, Afet BAJRAMI
Abstract
Introduction: The thyroid gland is a vital endocrine (hormone-producing) gland. It plays an important role in the metabolism, growth and development of the human body. It helps regulate many body functions by continuously secreting a constant amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. The size and shape of the thyroid gland can vary significantly with age, gender, physiological state, etc. but it can be larger in women than in men and can enlarge during menstruation and pregnancy.
Morphological disorders of the thyroid mainly include thyroid nodules. Thyroid nodules are a common occurrence and are detected in approximately 5% to 7% of the adult population by physical examination. The risk of thyroid nodules is higher with increasing age, female gender,in pregnancy, iodine deficiency, etc. The initial workup for a thyroid nodule should consist of obtaining a medical history, performing a physical exam, assessing thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and conducting a thyroid ultrasound to evaluate the gland's structure.
Physiological hormonal disorders of the gland can result in excessive production of FT3 and FT4 along with a compensatory decrease in TSH. In addition, thyrotrophic adenoma can produce abnormally regulated TSH and can lead to increased production of FT3 and FT4. Under certain conditions, thyroid hormone is produced ectopically, resulting in elevated thyroid hormone levels and a compensatory reduction in TSH.
Aim of the Study: This study aims to analyze morphological and hormonal changes of the thyroid gland in the population of Polog and surrounding areas in North Macedonia, with focus on endogenous or exogenous factors, treatment, and potential thyroid endemism, especially in mountainous villages compared to urban and highway areas.
Material and Methods: The study includes 30 female patients divided into three age groups (20–40 age, 41–60 age, and over 61 age) and 10 control subjects. Blood serum levels of TSH, FT4 and FT3 will be analyzed using the automated fluorescent enzyme immunoassay method (Vidas – Biomerie, France).
Results and Conclusion: The findings will provide a clear overview of thyroid hormone levels in the Polog region and highlight the prevalence of thyroid disorders across different geographical zones. Thyroid hormones are essential for metabolism and physiological functions their imbalance can lead to conditions like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Understanding these mechanisms is key to effective diagnosis and personalized treatment in this population.
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