22 Aug 2024
Elevated Homocysteine Levels Accompany Hypothyroidism and Stroke
The article reports on the connection between elevated homocysteine levels, hypothyroidism, and stroke, highlighting that elevated homocysteine could be an independent risk factor for accelerated atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.
A study led by Dr. Wiam Hussein from the Cleveland Clinic Foundation investigated whether treating hypothyroidism with L-thyroxine could normalize elevated homocysteine levels. The study found that all participants with hypothyroidism had elevated homocysteine levels before treatment. After treatment, homocysteine levels fell in all patients, with the majority returning to normal levels.
Another study by Dr. Andrew Boston at Tufts University explored the association between baseline homocysteine levels and the risk of stroke in older adults. The study found that higher homocysteine levels significantly increased the risk of stroke, particularly in patients with a history of atrial fibrillation or coronary heart disease.
The article concludes by suggesting that homocysteine levels should be measured as part of risk assessments, especially in elderly patients, as they may be a significant risk factor for stroke.