EC Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine

COVID-19 infection and anti-COVID-19 vaccines have a potential impact on autoimmune and endocrinological processes, including thyroid function. The aim of this study is to investigate changes in thyroid hormones (FT4, TSH) and autoimmune markers (Anti-TPO, Anti-TG) in patients with thyroid disorders after COVID-19 infection and vaccination. The study included 150 patients with previously diagnosed co-thyroid disorders, divided into three groups: (A) patients who had recovered from COVID-19, (B) patients who had received the anti-COVID-19 vaccine, and (C) a control group that was neither infected nor vaccinated. Their FT4, TSH, Anti-TPO, and Anti-TG values were analyzed before and after exposure to these factors. Statistical analysis included t-test, ANOVA, and χ2 test to determine the significance of differences. Patients in the group A (post-COVID-19) show a significant decrease in FT4 (1.2 → 1.0 ng/dL) and an increase in TSH (2.5 → 4.0 mIU/L), as well as a significant increase in the autoimmune antibodies Anti-TPO (50 → 120 IU/mL) and Anti-TG (30 → 80 IU/mL). In the group B (vaccinated patients), a milder change is observed, with a moderate increase in TSH (2.5 → 3.0 mIU/L) and Auto-TPO/ Auto-TG, but to a lesser extent than in the COVID-19 group. The control group does not show statistically significant changes. This study shows that COVID-19 infection has a significantly greater impact on thyroid function and autoimmune processes compared to vaccination. The vaccine induces a milder immune response, without significant adverse effects on thyroid hormones. These findings are useful for better management of patients with thyroid diseases in the context of COVID-19 and vaccination.

Keywords

COVID-19; Vaccination; Thyroid Function; Autoimmune Antibodies; FT4; TSH; Anti-TPO; Anti-TG

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