ESPE Abstracts

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of autoantibodies associated with hypothyroid disease and to assess the associated comorbid autoimmune diseases in Indian pediatric patients.

Materials and Methods: Children (n=373) diagnosed with hypothyroidism at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi, India were screened for celiac disease (tissue transglutaminase autoantibodies [TTGAb]) which were further confirmed by upper GI endoscopy and biopsy for coeliac disease. They were also tested for TPOAb and other autoimmune diseases.

Results: Of the 373 children, 174 had thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies [TPOAb]), and of these, 14 (8.04%) had autoimmune thyroid disease, 8 (4.59%) had celiac disease, 5(2.87%) had vitiligo and one patient had autoimmune alopecia. Two patients had autoimmune Type1 diabetes with Thyroid disease and coeliac disease.

Conclusions: Early detection of commonly associated autoantibodies at type 1, aids regular follow up, may prevent complications associated with delayed diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.