Triiodothyronine replacement in critically ill adults with non-thyroidal illness syndrome
Authors: Salmaan Kanji, Jonathan Neilipovitz, Benjamin Neilipovitz, John Kim, Wael MR Haddara, Michelle Pittman, Hilary Meggison, Rakesh Patel
Volume: 65
Description:
Purpose
Non-thyroidal illness syndrome is commonly encountered in critically ill patients, many of whom are treated with thyroid hormones despite uncertainty regarding their safety and effectiveness. This retrospective observational study sought to evaluate the utilization, safety, and effectiveness of triiodothyronine (T3) supplementation in critically ill adults admitted to either of two non-cardiac surgery mixed-medical/surgical intensive care units (ICU).
Methods
Consecutive adults admitted to an ICU and treated with enterally administered T3 were identified over a two-year period. Data pertaining to demographics, T3 utilization, safety, and clinical outcomes were collected.
Results
Data were extracted from the medical records of 70 consecutive patients. All had baseline serum free T3 concentrations below the lower limit of …