Nihon rinsho. Japanese journal of clinical medicine
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Subclinical thyroid disease is defined as a disorder involving an abnormal serum thyroid-stimulating hormone level (TSH), but free thyroxine (FT4) and triiodothyronine (FT3) levels within the reference range. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism is about 4 to 8.5 percent of the population, and may rise to about 20 percent in women older than 60 years. ⋯ However, there is a little evidence showing the significance of early treatment for both disorders. In this review, we discuss the prevalence, diagnosis, natural history, and potential pathophysiological consequences of subclinical hypo- and hyperthyroidism.
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Thyrotoxic storm is a life-threatening condition requiring emergency treatment. Neither its epidemiological data nor diagnostic criteria have been fully established. We clarified the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of thyroid storm using nationwide surveys and then formulate diagnostic criteria for thyroid storm. ⋯ We analyzed the relationship of the major features of thyroid storm to mortality and to certain other features. Finally, based upon the findings of these surveys, we revised the diagnostic criteria. Thyrotoxic storm is still a life-threatening disorder with over 10% mortality in Japan.