THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GRAVES’ DISEASE, OBESITY, AND SERUM LEPTIN LEVEL

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study aimed at evaluating the effects of radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy on metabolic processes, including leptin levels and body mass index (BMI), in individuals with Graves' disease. The study involved 62 patients with Graves' disease, who were divided into two groups based on their BMI (BMI < 25 and ≥ 25). Leptin levels increased significantly after RAI treatment, especially in patients with high BMI (p<0.001). A positive correlation was found between leptin and BMI in both groups, and a correlation was also found between blood TSH levels and leptin after treatment. However, in patients who were previously overweight, after radioiodine therapy, despite adequate replacement therapy, compensated hypothyroidism is accompanied by significantly more pronounced hyperleptinemia associated with an increase in adipose tissue mass. This may lead to the development of cardiovascular complications and metabolic syndrome in the future, which supports the need for close monitoring and potential weight control strategies after treatment.