How does hypothyroidism affect lipid levels?

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Multiple Choice

How does hypothyroidism affect lipid levels?

Thyroid hormone helps the liver clear LDL from the blood by increasing LDL receptor expression and activity. In hypothyroidism, reduced thyroid hormone action lowers LDL receptor levels, so LDL clearance decreases and LDL cholesterol builds up in the circulation. This raises LDL-C and total cholesterol, which is the most consistent lipid abnormality seen with untreated hypothyroidism. HDL levels aren’t typically elevated, and while triglycerides can be modestly raised due to other metabolic effects, the key pattern is higher LDL-C. So the best answer reflects elevated LDL-C and total cholesterol from reduced hepatic LDL receptor activity.

Thyroid hormone helps the liver clear LDL from the blood by increasing LDL receptor expression and activity. In hypothyroidism, reduced thyroid hormone action lowers LDL receptor levels, so LDL clearance decreases and LDL cholesterol builds up in the circulation. This raises LDL-C and total cholesterol, which is the most consistent lipid abnormality seen with untreated hypothyroidism. HDL levels aren’t typically elevated, and while triglycerides can be modestly raised due to other metabolic effects, the key pattern is higher LDL-C. So the best answer reflects elevated LDL-C and total cholesterol from reduced hepatic LDL receptor activity.

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