ABSTRACT

The term adult primary hypothyroidism denes a condition characterized by decreased concentrations of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) in the target tissues due to reduced synthesis and secretion of these hormones by the thyroid gland. The severe form of hypothyroidism, characterized by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans in the interstitial tissue, is called myxedema. From a clinical view, hypothyroidism can be distinguished as overt and subclinical.