Introduction. Thyroid dysfunction has been identified as one of
the most common comorbidities in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of thyroid disease and vitamin D levels in patients with MS compared
to the general population, and to assess the potential impact
of thyroid status and vitamin D levels on the degree of physical
disability and the prediction of multiple sclerosis.
Methods. A total of 127 participants were prospectively enrolled
in the study: 59 (46.5%) were healthy controls and 68 (53.5%)
were patients diagnosed with MS. Both groups were assessed
for serum levels of TSH, FT4, anti-TPO antibodies, and vitamin D.
In the MS group, the physical disability was additionally evaluated using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).
Results. Overt hypothyroidism (p = 0.011) and vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.013) were significantly more frequent among MS
patients. Mean FT4 levels (p = 0.025) and vitamin D levels (p =
0.018) were significantly lower in the MS group, whereas anti-TPO antibody levels were markedly higher in MS patients (p <
0.001). EDSS scores showed a negative correlation with vitamin
D concentrations (p < 0.050). Multivariate analysis identified independent risk factors for MS, including the presence of severe
hypovitaminosis D (p = 0.035), lower vitamin D concentrations
(p = 0.003), and elevated anti-TPO levels (p = 0.042).
Conclusion. Evaluation of thyroid status, as well as vitamin D
concentrations, should be considered a standard part of healthcare for PwMS.
