Abstract

Levels of thyroid hormones, serum thyroxine (T4) triiodothyronine (T3) and thyrotropine (TSH) were measured in 36 patients with liver cirrhosis using radioimmunoassay techniques. Results were compared with 30 controls. The mean serum concentration of T3 and T3 / T4 ratio was significantly decreased in cirrhotics (p<0.01), while no significant change was noted in serum T4 and TSH levels. Serum T3 levels and T3 / T4 ratio showed a positive correlation with serum albumin and prothrombin time and may be useful in assesing the course and prognosis in cirrhotic patients.