Evaluation of thyroid hormone levels and somatomedin-C (IGF-1) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and relation with the severity of the disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has recently become a significant cause of mortality and morbidity. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the severity of the disease and levels of serum thyroid hormones and somatomedin-C [Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1)]. Sixty one COPD cases (group 1) were enrolled. Control group (group 2) consisted of 20 healthy individuals. Blood samples were obtained for the analysis of arterial blood gases and hormone levels and respiratory function tests were performed on the same day. Measured hormone levels were compared between group 1 and group 2. Among thyroid hormone levels, there was no significant difference in thyroid stimulating hormone and free T3 between group 1 and 2 whereas free T4 levels were significantly higher in group 1 (p< 0.01). Additionally, mean IGF-1 levels were significantly lower in group 1 (p< 0.005). When three groups, classified according to Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria, were compared, significant differences were observed between mild-moderate COPD cases and severe patients with respect to free T3 and IGF-1 levels (p< 0.05). Hormone levels in COPD patients change depending on the severity of the disease. In the future hormone therapies can use for the COPD treatments. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm our conclusions.