Increased serum reverse triiodothyronine in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum

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Abstract
Thyroid function and pituitary responsiveness to TRH were studied in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum. Serum T3 [triiodothyronine] and T4 [thyroxine] concentrations were normal. Serum TBG [thyroid binding globulin] levels in hyperemesis were normal for gestation, and the T4: TBG ratio was in the euthyroid range. In all patients a normal TSH response to TRH was found. Mean serum r[reverse]T3 concentration was increased by 31% as compared to a control group of normal pregnant women (P < 0.001). Apparently in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum there is: normal function of the thyroid gland and pituitary-thyroid axis, an enhanced peripheral conversion of T4 to rT3.