Gestational diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism: two sides of the same coin

Abstract

Aim. To perform a systematic review of common risk factors and prognostic markers of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and hypothyroidism (HT), as well as maternal and perinatal complications in these diseases. For achieving this task, we screened and analysed the relevant data from the publications in a PubMed database over the past 6 years.Key Points. A common risk factor for both diseases is obesity, which is characterized by pregestational insulin resistance, as well as the combination of by low-grade chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction termed as meta-inflammation. Antibodies to the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) are associated with the reduced the risk of GDM. Studies on pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia in patients with GDM and HT have shown unequivocal results, although most of them suggest both HT and GDM as risk factors for the development of this pregnancy complication. Elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone are associated with reduced antioxidant capacity and long-term endothelial activation. The heterogeneity of the anemia in GDM requires a rigorous differential diagnosis.Conclusion. GDM and HT are the most common endocrine diseases during pregnancy which significantly increase the risk of maternal and perinatal complications. Common risk factors, interrelationship, and ambiguous data on GDM and HT development mechanisms indicate the need for screening and detailed monitoring of patients with thyroid dysfunction for early detection and correction of hyperglycemia.