JOSE AUGUSTO SGARBI

EDUCATION

Medical Doctor, Faculdade de Medicina de Vassouras, BR, 1984
M.Sc, Internal Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, Universidade do Estado de São Paulo, UNESP
PhD., Clinical Endocrinology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Univesidade Federal de São Paulo, UNESP

RESEARCH, TEACHING, or OTHER INTERESTS

Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Epidemiology, Internal Medicine

Scopus Publications

Branched-Chain Amino Acids, Alanine, and Thyroid Function: A Cross-Sectional, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-Based Approach from ELSA-Brasil
Carolina Castro Porto Silva Janovsky, Vandrize Meneghini, William Tebar, Joao Roberto Maciel Martins, José Augusto Sgarbi, Patrícia de Fatima dos Santos Teixeira, Steven R. Jones, Michael J. Blaha, Peter P. Toth, Paulo A. Lotufo,et al.
MDPI AG
The association of thyroid function with essential and non-essential amino acids is understudied, despite their common metabolic roles. Thus, our aim was to evaluate the association of thyroid function with the levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs—leucine, isoleucine, and valine) and of alanine in the general population. We utilized data from the São Paulo research center of ELSA-Brasil, a longitudinal population-based cohort study. Thyroid parameters included thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 and free T3 levels, and the FT4:FT3 ratio. BCAAs and alanine were analyzed on a fully automated NMR platform. The current analysis included euthyroid participants and participants with subclinical hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. We used Pearson’s coefficient to quantify the correlation between thyroid-related parameters and amino acids. Linear regression models were performed to analyze whether thyroid parameters were associated with BCAAs and alanine levels. We included 4098 participants (51.3 ± 9.0 years old, 51.5% women) in this study. In the most adjusted model, higher levels of TSH were associated with higher levels of alanine, FT4 levels were inversely associated with isoleucine levels, FT3 levels were statistically significant and positively associated with valine and leucine, and the T3:T4 ratio was positively associated with all amino acids. We observed that subclinical hypothyroidism was positively associated with isoleucine and alanine levels in all models, even after full adjustment. Our findings highlight the association of subclinical hypothyroidism and thyroid-related parameters (including TSH, free T4, free T3, and FT4:FT3 ratio) with BCAAs and alanine. Further studies are needed to explore the mechanisms underlying this association. These insights contribute to our understanding of the influence of thyroid-related parameters on BCAA and alanine metabolism.


Potential Determinants of Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies and Mortality Risk: Results From the ELSA-Brasil Study
Vandrize Meneghini, William Rodrigues Tebar, Itamar Souza Santos, Carolina Castro Porto Silva Janovsky, Bianca de Almeida-Pititto, Marina Gabriela Birck, Paulo Andrade Lotufo, Alessandra Carvalho Goulart, José Augusto Sgarbi, Patrícia de Fátima dos Santos Teixeira,et al.
The Endocrine Society
Abstract Context The presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAbs) may be considered as an indicator of adverse health outcomes. Objective We aimed to investigate the potential determinants of TPOAb levels and to analyze the association between TPOAb titers and the risk of all- and specific-cause mortality. Methods Baseline and longitudinal data of 13 187 participants from the ELSA-Brasil Study were analyzed. We investigated the association of TPOAb, detectability, positivity, and persistent positivity with sociodemographic and lifestyle factors using logistic regressions. Cox proportional hazards and Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard regression analyses were used to verify the association of TPOAbs with mortality. Results The determinants of TPOAb detectability and positivity were younger age, higher body mass index, female sex, and former and current smoking status. Black, mixed, and other self-reported races, intermediate and higher education, and heavy drinking were determinants of detectable and positive TPOAb levels. Female sex, White race, and former smoking were determinants of persistent TPOAb positivity at 2 visits, although only the female sex maintained its association at 3 visits. Moreover, after multivariate adjustment, there were associations between higher levels of TPOAbs and higher risk of cancer-related mortality among men, and TPOAb detectability and mortality by other causes among women. Conclusion Sociodemographic and lifestyle-related factors were determinants of multiple TPOAb categories. TPOAb levels were associated with mortality risk; however, the low mortality rate in this sample might have compromised this finding. We suggest further studies to explore the clinical importance of detectable TPOAb levels, not only its positivity, as a potential marker of inflammation.


Thyroid peroxidase antibodies were associated with prevalent carotid intima-media thickness in middle-age and older adults: the ELSA-Brasil cohort
Vandrize Meneghini, William R. Tebar, Itamar S. Santos, Carolina C.P.S. Janovsky, Ana C. Varella, Paulo A. Lotufo, José A. Sgarbi, Patrícia F.S. Teixeira, and Isabela M. Benseñor
Springer Science and Business Media LLC



Associations of TSH, free T3, free T4, and conversion ratio with incident hypertension: results from the prospective Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Marina Gabriela Birck, Carolina C. P. S. Janovsky, Alessandra Carvalho Goulart, Vandrize Meneghini, Bianca de Almeida Pititto, José Augusto Sgarbi, Patrícia de Fátima dos Santos Teixeira, and Isabela M. Bensenor
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism
Objective To evaluate the association of TSH, free T3 (FT3), free T4 (FT4), and conversion (FT3:FT4) ratio values with incident hypertension. Materials and methods The study included data from participants of the ELSA-Brasil study without baseline hypertension. Serum TSH, FT4 and FT3 levels, and FT3:FT4 ratio values were assessed at baseline, and incident hypertension (defined by blood pressure levels ≥ 140/90 mmHg) was estimated over a median of 8.2 years of follow-up. The risk of incident hypertension was evaluated considering a 1-unit increase in TSH, FT4, FT3, and conversion ratio values and after dividing these variables into quintiles for further analysis using Poisson regression with robust variance. The results are presented as relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) before and after adjustment for multiple variables. Results The primary analysis incorporated data from 5,915 euthyroid individuals, and the secondary analysis combined data from all euthyroid individuals, 587 individuals with subclinical hypothyroidism, and 31 individuals with subclinical hyperthyroidism. The rate of incident hypertension was 28% (95% CI: 27%-29.3%). The FT4 levels in the first quintile (0.18-1.06 ng/dL) were significantly associated with incident hypertension (RR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.06) at follow-up. The association between FT4 levels in the first quintile and incident hypertension was also observed in the analysis of combined data from euthyroid individuals and participants with subclinical thyroid dysfunction (RR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01-1.07). The associations were predominantly observed with systolic blood pressure levels in euthyroid individuals. However, in the combined analysis incorporating euthyroid participants and individuals with subclinical thyroid dysfunction, the associations were more pronounced with diastolic blood pressure levels. Conclusion Low FT4 levels may be a mild risk factor for incident hypertension in euthyroid individuals and persons with subclinical thyroid dysfunction.


The optimal healthy ranges of thyroid function defined by the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality: systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Yanning Xu, Arash Derakhshan, Ola Hysaj, Lea Wildisen, Till Ittermann, Alessandro Pingitore, Nazanin Abolhassani, Marco Medici, Lambertus A L M Kiemeney, Niels P Riksen,et al.
Elsevier BV



The Relationship between Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, TNF-α, and IL-10 Gene Expression
Jesselina Francisco dos Santos Haber, Sandra Maria Barbalho, Jose Augusto Sgarbi, Rafael Santos de Argollo Haber, Roger William de Labio, Lucas Fornari Laurindo, Eduardo Federighi Baisi Chagas, and Spencer Luiz Marques Payão
MDPI AG
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the major chronic diseases in children worldwide. This study aimed to investigate interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene expression and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in T1DM. A total of 107 patients were included, 15 were T1DM in ketoacidosis, 30 patients had T1DM and HbA1c ≥ 8%; 32 patients had T1DM and presented HbA1c < 8%; and 30 were controls. The expression of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was performed using the reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction in real time. The cytokines gene expression was higher in patients with T1DM. The IL-10 gene expression increased substantially in patients with ketoacidosis, and there was a positive correlation with HbA1c. A negative correlation was found for IL-10 expression and the age of patients with diabetes, and the time of diagnosis of the disease. There was a positive correlation between TNF-α expression with age. The expression of IL-10 and TNF-α genes showed a significant increase in DM1 patients. Once current T1DM treatment is based on exogenous insulin, there is a need for other therapies, and inflammatory biomarkers could bring new possibilities to the therapeutic approach of the patients.


Editorial: The thyroid and Covid-19, volume II
Gabriela Brenta, Marco António Campinho, Celia Regina Nogueira, and Jose Sgarbi
Frontiers Media SA



Editorial: New insights in thyroid and Covid-19
Jose Augusto Sgarbi, Celia Regina Nogueira, Gabriela Brenta, and Marco Antonio Campinho
Frontiers Media SA
COPYRIGHT © 2022 Sgarbi, Nogueira, Brenta and Campinho. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms. TYPE Editorial PUBLISHED 23 December 2022 DOI 10.3389/fendo.2022.1112695


Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone and Thyroid Hormones and Incidence of Diabetes: Prospective Results of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-BRASIL)
Marina Gabriela Birck, Bianca de Almeida-Pititto, Carolina C.P.S. Janovsky, Alessandra Carvalho Goulart, Itamar S. Santos, Patrícia de Fátima dos Santos Teixeira, Jose A. Sgarbi, Sandhi M. Barreto, Bruce B. Duncan, Maria Inês Schmidt,et al.
Thyroid Mary Ann Liebert Inc
BACKGROUND There are conflicting data regarding the association of thyroid function with incident diabetes. We prospectively investigated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free-thyroxine (FT4), free-triiodothyronine (FT3), and its conversion ratio (FT3:FT4), with the risk of developing diabetes in euthyroid subjects and those with subclinical thyroid dysfunction. Our hypothesis is that this relationship is a U-shaped curve since both subclinical thyroid diseases may be associated with diabetes. METHODS ELSA-Brasil is a highly admixed cohort study aged 35-74 years at baseline (2008-2010). Levels of TSH, FT4, FT3, and FT3:FT4 ratio were evaluated at baseline and incident diabetes was estimated over an 8.2-year follow-up (2017-2019). Diabetes was identified based on medical diagnosis, prescriptions and laboratory tests. The risk of diabetes was evaluated according to quintiles of TSH, FT4, FT3 and FT3:FT4 ratio using Poisson Regression with robust variance presented as relative risk (RR) with 95% Confidence Interval (95%CI) after multivariable adjustment for sociodemographic and cardiovascular risk factors (reference 3rd quintile) and also as continuous variables Results: We included 7,948 participants (mean age, 50.2 (SD8.6) years; 54.4% female): 7,177 euthyroid, 726 with subclinical hypothyroidism, and 45 with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Incidence of diabetes was 14.8%. No association was found for TSH, FT4, FT3, and FT3:FT4 ratio quintiles with incident diabetes. Using continuous variables, the increase of 1-unit of FT4 decreased the risk of diabetes (RR 0.94; 95%CI 0.91-0.99) while the increase of 1-unit of the FT3:FT4 ratio increased the diabetes risk (RR 1.37; 95%CI, 1.15-1.63). The increase of 1-unit of FT3 was associated with an increased risk of diabetes, but without significance after multivariable adjustment. In BMI stratified analysis, people with overweight or obesity presented a modest significantly higher risk of diabetes in the lowest quintile of FT4 (RR 1.04; 95%CI 1.01-1.07) and an inverse association with incident diabetes in the 1st quintile of FT3:FT4 ratio (RR, 0.95; 95%CI 0.93-0.98). The analyses using continuous variables presented similar findings. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that FT4 and FT3 levels and the conversion rate might be additional risk factors associated with incident diabetes specially in the presence of overweight or obesity. However, they need to be confirmed in future studies.


Incorporating Baseline Outcome Data in Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis of Non-randomized Studies
Lamprini Syrogiannouli, Lea Wildisen, Christiaan Meuwese, Douglas C. Bauer, Anne R. Cappola, Jacobijn Gussekloo, Wendy P. J. den Elzen, Stella Trompet, Rudi G. J. Westendorp, J. Wouter Jukema,et al.
Frontiers Media SA
BackgroundIn non-randomized studies (NRSs) where a continuous outcome variable (e.g., depressive symptoms) is assessed at baseline and follow-up, it is common to observe imbalance of the baseline values between the treatment/exposure group and control group. This may bias the study and consequently a meta-analysis (MA) estimate. These estimates may differ across statistical methods used to deal with this issue. Analysis of individual participant data (IPD) allows standardization of methods across studies. We aimed to identify methods used in published IPD-MAs of NRSs for continuous outcomes, and to compare different methods to account for baseline values of outcome variables in IPD-MA of NRSs using two empirical examples from the Thyroid Studies Collaboration (TSC).MethodsFor the first aim we systematically searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane from inception to February 2021 to identify published IPD-MAs of NRSs that adjusted for baseline outcome measures in the analysis of continuous outcomes. For the second aim, we applied analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), change score, propensity score and the naïve approach (ignores the baseline outcome data) in IPD-MA from NRSs on the association between subclinical hyperthyroidism and depressive symptoms and renal function. We estimated the study and meta-analytic mean difference (MD) and relative standard error (SE). We used both fixed- and random-effects MA.ResultsTen of 18 (56%) of the included studies used the change score method, seven (39%) studies used ANCOVA and one the propensity score (5%). The study estimates were similar across the methods in studies in which groups were balanced at baseline with regard to outcome variables but differed in studies with baseline imbalance. In our empirical examples, ANCOVA and change score showed study results on the same direction, not the propensity score. In our applications, ANCOVA provided more precise estimates, both at study and meta-analytical level, in comparison to other methods. Heterogeneity was higher when change score was used as outcome, moderate for ANCOVA and null with the propensity score.ConclusionANCOVA provided the most precise estimates at both study and meta-analytic level and thus seems preferable in the meta-analysis of IPD from non-randomized studies. For the studies that were well-balanced between groups, change score, and ANCOVA performed similarly.


Level of physical activity and gene expression of IL-10 and TNF-α in children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes
Jesselina Francisco dos Santos Haber, Eduardo Federighi Baisi Chagas, Sandra Maria Barbalho, Jose Augusto Sgarbi, Rafael Santos De Argollo Haber, Roger William de Labio, and Spencer Luiz Marques Payão
Elsevier BV



Approach to adult patients with primary hypothyroidism in some special situations: a position statement from the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM)
Gláucia Maria Ferreira da Silva Mazeto, José Augusto Sgarbi, Helton Estrela Ramos, Danilo Glauco Pereira Villagelin, Célia Regina Nogueira, Mario Vaisman, Hans Graf, and Gisah Amaral de Carvalho
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism
ABSTRACT Primary hypothyroidism is a common disorder in clinical practice. The management of most cases of hypothyroidism is usually straightforward, but the best approach in some special situations may raise questions among physicians. This position statement was prepared by experts from the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism to guide the management of three special situations, namely, hypothyroidism in the elderly, subclinical hypothyroidism in patients with heart disease, and difficult-to-control hypothyroidism. The authors prepared the present statement after conducting a search on the databases MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO and selecting articles with the best evidence quality addressing the selected situations. The statement presents information about the current approach to patients in these special situations.


Chronic inflammatory diseases, subclinical atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular diseases: Design, objectives, and baseline characteristics of a prospective case-cohort study ‒ ELSA-Brasil
Isabela M. Bensenor, Alessandra C. Goulart, Alexandre C. Pereira, André R. Brunoni, Airlane Alencar, Raul D. Santos, Márcio S. Bittencourt, Rosa W. Telles, Luciana Andrade Carneiro Machado, Sandhi Maria Barreto,et al.
Clinics Elsevier BV



Urinary iodine and sodium concentration and thyroid status in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Isabela M. Benseñor, Fernando Barbosa Junior, Carolina Castro Porto Silva Janovsky, Dirce Marchioni, Maria de Fátima Haueisen Sander Diniz, Itamar de Souza Santos, Bianca de Almeida-Pititto, José Augusto Sgarbi, Maria del Carmen B. Molina, José Geraldo Mill,et al.
Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology Elsevier BV
OBJECTIVES To evaluate urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in civil servants aged 35-74 years of the Brazilian Study of Adults Health (ELSA-Brasil) to analyze its relationship with sociodemographic, clinical risk factors, lifestyle, urinary Na and thyroid status. DESIGN Cross-sectional study in six Brazilian cities. METHODS This analysis included 792 participants with information about urinary iodine concentration (UIC). Thyroid status was defined by serum levels of TSH/FT4 and the current use of antithyroid drugs for treatment of overt hyperthyroidism or levothyroxine to treat overt hypothyroidism. The determination of UIC was carried out with an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) and was expressed as median with Interquartile Range (IQR). RESULTS In 792 participants, thereof 52% women, mean age was 51.9 (9.0) years. The median UIC was 219 (IQR, 166-291) for all persons studied, thereof 211 (IQR, 157-276) for women and 231 (IQR, 178-304) for men. According to the WHO classification, for all persons studied, 60% had more than adequate iodine-supply (UIC ≥200 μg/L), 37% were adequately supplied (UIC 100-199 μg/L) and <3% had a deficient iodine status (<100 μg/L). In the 35-44-year age strata, which includes women of childbearing age, 23.2% of women presented less than 150 μg/L of UIC. No differences in UIC were detected according to thyroid status. (P = 0.39) The correlation between Ur-Na and UIC showed a Spearman coefficient of 0.52 (P < 0.0001) and it was also found an association of Ur-Na with UIC: Beta of 1.76 (95% Confidence Interval (95% CI): 1.01 to 2.51. The urinary Na concentration showed a synergy with the UIC, that means medians of 57, 72, 107 and 141 mmol Na/L urine (P < 0.001) in the groups with the four UIC classes according to the WHO grading mentioned above. The very low Na content in the persons exhibiting <100 μg/L UIC seems to reflect also a higher urine volume due to the frequent use of diuretics. The strong relationship between the urinary Na concentration and the UIC points to a dependence of the UIC on the individual consumption of iodized salt, which should be more considered in future studies. The strong relationship between the urinary Na concentration and the UIC points to a dependence of the UIC on the individual consumption of iodized salt, which should be more considered in future studies. CONCLUSIONS Euthyroid persons were dominating by more than four fifths and no significant association was found between UIC and thyroid status. Although most of the persons studied present more than adequate iodine intake it was observed that nearly a quarter of women in childbearing age are iodine deficient.


Incidence of thyroid diseases: Results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Isabela M. Benseñor, José Augusto Sgarbi, Carolina Castro Porto Silva Janovsky, Bianca Almeida Pittito, Maria de Fátima Haueisen Sander Diniz, Maria da Conceição Chagas de Almeida, Sheila Maria Alvim, Sandhi M. Barreto, Luana Giatti, Bruce B. Duncan,et al.
Archives of endocrinology and metabolism Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism
Objective To evaluate incidence of subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Methods The Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) is a prospective cohort study of 15,105 civil servants, examined at baseline and over a 4-year follow-up. This analysis included 9,705 participants with normal thyroid function at baseline, follow-up information about thyroid function and with no report of using drugs that may interfere in the thyroid function. Thyroid function was defined by TSH/FT4 levels or routine use of thyroid hormones/anti-thyroid medications. Annual and cumulative (over 4-year) incidence rates were presented as percentages (95% Confidence Intervals). Results The incidence of all overt and subclinical thyroid disease was 6.7% (1.73%/year): 0.19% for overt hyperthyroidism (0.048%/year), 0.54% for subclinical hyperthyroidism (0.14%/year), 1.98% for overt hypothyroidism (0.51%/year), and 3.99% for subclinical hypothyroidism (1.03%/year). The incidence of all thyroid diseases was higher in women, when compared to men, with a low women:men ratio (1.36). For Blacks the highest incidence was for overt hyperthyroidism, while for Whites, the highest incidence was for overt hypothyroidism. However, the highest incidence of overt hyperthyroidism was detected in Asian descendants. The presence of antithyroperoxidase antibodies at baseline was associated with higher incidence of overt thyroid diseases. Conclusion These results showed a high incidence of hypothyroidism, which is compatible with a country with a more-than-adequate iodine intake. The low women:men ratio of the incidence of thyroid dysfunction highlights the importance of the diagnosis of thyroid diseases among men in Brazil.


Incidence of TPOAb over a 4-year follow-up period: results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Isabela M. Benseñor, Carolina Castro Porto Silva Janovsky, Alessandra C. Goulart, Itamar de Souza Santos, Maria de Fátima Haueisen Sander Diniz, Bianca de Almeida-Pititto, José Augusto Sgarbi, and Paulo A. Lotufo
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism
ABSTRACT Objective: Although some previous data have suggested a high iodine intake in Brazil, the prevalence of antithyroperoxidase antibodies (TPOAb) in the country is compatible with rates from countries with adequate iodine intake. This observation emphasizes the importance of knowing the incidence of TPOAb in Brazil. Materials and methods: This prospective analysis included euthyroid participants with negative TPOAb at baseline and a thyroid function assessment at a 4-year follow-up. TPOAb was measured by electrochemiluminescence and considered positive when titers were ≥34 IU/mL. TSH and free T4 (FT4) levels were determined by a third-generation immunoenzymatic assay. The incidence of TPOAb is expressed in percentage per year or as a cumulative incidence within the 4-year follow-up period. Results: Of 8,922 euthyroid participants (mean age 51.1 years; 50.9% women) with a negative TPOAb test at baseline, 130 presented incident TPOAb at the 4-year follow-up, yielding an annual incidence of TPOAb of 0.38%/year (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.37-0.39%/year) and a cumulative incidence over 4 years of 1.46% (95% CI, 1.21-1.71%). In men, the annual incidence was 0.32% (95% CI, 0.31-0.33%), and the cumulative incidence over 4 years was 1.23% (95% CI, 0.90-1.56%). In women, the annual incidence was 0.43%/year (95% CI, 0.42-0.44%/year) and the cumulative incidence over 4 years was 1.67% (95% CI, 1.30-2.04%). The only factor associated with incident TPOAb was the occurrence of thyroid diseases at follow-up. No differences in TPOAb incidence were detected across ELSA-Brasil research centers. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the incidence of TPOAb per year and at a 4-year follow-up period are compatible with those of a country with adequate iodine intake.


Management of thyroid disorders during the COVID-19 outbreak: a position statement from the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM)
João Roberto M. Martins, Danilo G. P. Villagelin, Gisah A. Carvalho, Fernanda Vaisman, Patrícia F. S. Teixeira, Rafael S. Scheffel, and José A. Sgarbi
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism
ABSTRACT This position statement was prepared to guide endocrinologists on the best approach to managing thyroid disorders during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The most frequent thyroid hormonal findings in patients with COVID-19, particularly in individuals with severe disease, are similar to those present in the non-thyroidal illness syndrome and require no intervention. Subacute thyroiditis has also been reported during COVID-19 infection. Diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism during the COVID-19 pandemic may follow usual practice; however, should avoid frequent laboratory tests in patients with previous controlled disease. Well-controlled hypo and hyperthyroidism are not associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 infection or severity. Newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism during the pandemic should be preferably treated with antithyroid drugs (ATDs), bearing in mind the possibility of rare side effects with these medications, particularly agranulocytosis, which requires immediate intervention. Definitive treatment of hyperthyroidism (radioiodine therapy or surgery) may be considered in those cases that protective protocols can be followed to avoid COVID-19 contamination or once the pandemic is over. In patients with moderate Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) not at risk of visual loss, glucocorticoids at immunosuppressive doses should be avoided, while in those with severe GO without COVID-19 and at risk of vision loss, intravenous glucocorticoid is the therapeutic choice. Considering that most of the thyroid cancer cases are low risk and associated with an excellent prognosis, surgical procedures could and should be postponed safely during the pandemic period. Additionally, when indicated, radioiodine therapy could also be safely postponed as long as it is possible.


A practical contemporary approach to decision-making on subclinical hypothyroidism
José Augusto Sgarbi and Laura Sterian Ward
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism
ABSTRACT Subclinical hypothyroidism (Shypo) is an increasingly frequent condition in common medical practice. Its diagnosis continues to pose a challenge since a series of non-thyroidal and temporary conditions can elevate serum TSH levels. In addition, the consequences of Shypo are still up for debate. Although detrimental cardiovascular effects have been consistently demonstrated in the young, they are less evident in older adults (65-79 years), and even more so in the oldest old (≥80 years). In the absence of evidence of any benefits of treating Shypo in patients’ clinical manifestations and unfavorable outcomes, the most effective decision-making approach should include a thorough investigation of the patient's condition integrating all relevant clinical data, such as TSH levels, age, quality of life, comorbidities, cardiovascular risk, safety, and personal preferences. The decision-making process needs to take into account the risk of levothyroxine overtreatment and the resulting adverse consequences, such as reduction of bone mineral density, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Hence, current evidence suggests that individuals with TSH > 10 mU/L, who test positive for TPO Ab or are symptomatic may benefit from levothyroxine treatment. However, a more cautious and conservative approach is required in older (≥65 years of age), and oldest-old (≥80 years) patients, particularly those with frailty, in which the risk of treatment can outweigh potential benefits. The latter may benefit from a wait-and-see approach.


Thyroid and the Heart: A Historical Perspective
José Augusto Sgarbi
Springer International Publishing



Efficacy and safety of a biosimilar recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH Cristalia) compared with reference r-hGH in children with growth hormone deficiency (CERES study): A randomized, multicentric, investigator-blind, phase 3 trial
M.A. Czepielewski, Q. Garret, S.A.C. Vencio, N. Rassi, J.S. Felicio, M.S. Faria, C.C.P. Senn, M.D. Bronstein, M.J.A.G. Cerqueira, A.C.L. Neves,et al.
Elsevier BV



Low thyroid function is not associated with an accelerated deterioration in renal function
Christiaan L Meuwese, Merel van Diepen, Anne R Cappola, Mark J Sarnak, Michael G Shlipak, Douglas C Bauer, Linda P Fried, Massimo Iacoviello, Bert Vaes, Jean Degryse,et al.
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is frequently accompanied by thyroid hormone dysfunction. It is currently unclear whether these alterations are the cause or consequence of CKD. This study aimed at studying the effect of thyroid hormone alterations on renal function in cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses in individuals from all adult age groups. Methods Individual participant data (IPD) from 16 independent cohorts having measured thyroid stimulating hormone, free thyroxine levels and creatinine levels were included. Thyroid hormone status was defined using clinical cut-off values. Estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) were calculated by means of the four-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula. For this IPD meta-analysis, eGFR at baseline and eGFR change during follow-up were computed by fitting linear regression models and linear mixed models in each cohort separately. Effect estimates were pooled using random effects models. Results A total of 72 856 individuals from 16 different cohorts were included. At baseline, individuals with overt hypothyroidism (n = 704) and subclinical hypothyroidism (n = 3356) had a average (95% confidence interval) −4.07 (−6.37 to −1.78) and −2.40 (−3.78 to −1.02) mL/min/1.73 m2 lower eGFR as compared with euthyroid subjects (n = 66 542). In (subclinical) hyperthyroid subjects (n = 2254), average eGFR was 3.01 (1.50–4.52) mL/min/1.73 m2 higher. During 329 713 patient years of follow-up, eGFR did not decline more rapidly in individuals with low thyroid function compared with individuals with normal thyroid function. Conclusions Low thyroid function is not associated with a deterioration of renal function. The cross-sectional association may be explained by renal dysfunction causing thyroid hormone alterations.


Region-specific reference intervals for TSH in pregnancy: Time for changes in Brazil
José Augusto Sgarbi
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism



Thyroid function within the reference range and the risk of stroke: An individual participant data analysis
Layal Chaker, Christine Baumgartner, Wendy P. J. den Elzen, Tinh-Hai Collet, M. Arfan Ikram, Manuel R. Blum, Abbas Dehghan, Christiane Drechsler, Robert N. Luben, Marileen L. P. Portegies,et al.
The Endocrine Society
CONTEXT The currently applied reference ranges for thyroid function are under debate. Despite evidence that thyroid function within the reference range is related with several cardiovascular disorders, its association with the risk of stroke has not been evaluated previously. DESIGN AND SETTING We identified studies through a systematic literature search and the Thyroid Studies Collaboration, a collaboration of prospective cohort studies. Studies measuring baseline TSH, free T4, and stroke outcomes were included, and we collected individual participant data from each study, including thyroid function measurements and incident all stroke (combined fatal and nonfatal) and fatal stroke. The applied reference range for TSH levels was between 0.45 and 4.49 mIU/L. RESULTS We collected individual participant data on 43 598 adults with TSH within the reference range from 17 cohorts, with a median follow-up of 11.6 years (interquartile range 5.1-13.9), including 449 908 person-years. Age- and sex-adjusted pooled hazard ratio for TSH was 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65-0.95 across the reference range of TSH) for all stroke and 0.83 (95% CI 0.62-1.09) for fatal stroke. For the free T4 analyses, the hazard ratio was 1.08 (95% CI 0.99-1.15 per SD increase) for all stroke and 1.10 (95% CI 1.04-1.19) for fatal stroke. This was independent of cardiovascular risk factors including systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, smoking, and prevalent diabetes. CONCLUSION Higher levels of TSH within the reference range may decrease the risk of stroke, highlighting the need for further research focusing on the clinical consequences associated with differences within the reference range of thyroid function.


Empagliflozin and progression of kidney disease in type 2 diabetes
Christoph Wanner, Silvio E. Inzucchi, John M. Lachin, David Fitchett, Maximilian von Eynatten, Michaela Mattheus, Odd Erik Johansen, Hans J. Woerle, Uli C. Broedl, and Bernard Zinman
Massachusetts Medical Society
BACKGROUND Diabetes confers an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular and renal events. In the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial, empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes at high risk for cardiovascular events. We wanted to determine the long-term renal effects of empagliflozin, an analysis that was a prespecified component of the secondary microvascular outcome of that trial. METHODS We randomly assigned patients with type 2 diabetes and an estimated glomerular filtration rate of at least 30 ml per minute per 1.73 m(2) of body-surface area to receive either empagliflozin (at a dose of 10 mg or 25 mg) or placebo once daily. Prespecified renal outcomes included incident or worsening nephropathy (progression to macroalbuminuria, doubling of the serum creatinine level, initiation of renal-replacement therapy, or death from renal disease) and incident albuminuria. RESULTS Incident or worsening nephropathy occurred in 525 of 4124 patients (12.7%) in the empagliflozin group and in 388 of 2061 (18.8%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio in the empagliflozin group, 0.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.53 to 0.70; P<0.001). Doubling of the serum creatinine level occurred in 70 of 4645 patients (1.5%) in the empagliflozin group and in 60 of 2323 (2.6%) in the placebo group, a significant relative risk reduction of 44%. Renal-replacement therapy was initiated in 13 of 4687 patients (0.3%) in the empagliflozin group and in 14 of 2333 patients (0.6%) in the placebo group, representing a 55% lower relative risk in the empagliflozin group. There was no significant between-group difference in the rate of incident albuminuria. The adverse-event profile of empagliflozin in patients with impaired kidney function at baseline was similar to that reported in the overall trial population. CONCLUSIONS In patients with type 2 diabetes at high cardiovascular risk, empagliflozin was associated with slower progression of kidney disease and lower rates of clinically relevant renal events than was placebo when added to standard care. (Funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly and Company Diabetes Alliance; EMPA-REG OUTCOME ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01131676.).


Effect of sitagliptin on cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes
Jennifer B. Green, M. Angelyn Bethel, Paul W. Armstrong, John B. Buse, Samuel S. Engel, Jyotsna Garg, Robert Josse, Keith D. Kaufman, Joerg Koglin, Scott Korn,et al.
Massachusetts Medical Society
BACKGROUND Data are lacking on the long-term effect on cardiovascular events of adding sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor, to usual care in patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. METHODS In this randomized, double-blind study, we assigned 14,671 patients to add either sitagliptin or placebo to their existing therapy. Open-label use of antihyperglycemic therapy was encouraged as required, aimed at reaching individually appropriate glycemic targets in all patients. To determine whether sitagliptin was noninferior to placebo, we used a relative risk of 1.3 as the marginal upper boundary. The primary cardiovascular outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or hospitalization for unstable angina. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 3.0 years, there was a small difference in glycated hemoglobin levels (least-squares mean difference for sitagliptin vs. placebo, -0.29 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.32 to -0.27). Overall, the primary outcome occurred in 839 patients in the sitagliptin group (11.4%; 4.06 per 100 person-years) and 851 patients in the placebo group (11.6%; 4.17 per 100 person-years). Sitagliptin was noninferior to placebo for the primary composite cardiovascular outcome (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.88 to 1.09; P<0.001). Rates of hospitalization for heart failure did not differ between the two groups (hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.20; P=0.98). There were no significant between-group differences in rates of acute pancreatitis (P=0.07) or pancreatic cancer (P=0.32). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, adding sitagliptin to usual care did not appear to increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, hospitalization for heart failure, or other adverse events. (Funded by Merck Sharp & Dohme; TECOS ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00790205.).

RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

Associations Between Subclinical Thyroid Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Risk Factors According to Age and Sex (Dec, 10.1210/clinem/dgae860, 2024)
O Baretella, MR Blum, N Abolhassani, H Alwan, L Wildisen, ...
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM 2025



Associations between subclinical thyroid dysfunction and cardiovascular risk factors according to age and sex
O Baretella, MR Blum, N Abolhassani, H Alwan, L Wildisen, ...
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, dgae860 2024



Thyroid peroxidase antibodies were associated with prevalent carotid intima-media thickness in middle-age and older adults: the ELSA-Brasil cohort
V Meneghini, WR Tebar, IS Santos, CCPS Janovsky, AC Varella, ...
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, 1-10 2024



Branched-Chain Amino Acids, Alanine, and Thyroid Function: A Cross-Sectional, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-Based Approach from ELSA-Brasil
CCPS Janovsky, V Meneghini, W Tebar, JRM Martins, JA Sgarbi, ...
Metabolites 14 (8), 437 2024



Associations of TSH, free T3, free T4, and conversion ratio with incident hypertension: results from the prospective Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
MG Birck, CCPS Janovsky, AC Goulart, V Meneghini, BA Pititto, JA Sgarbi, ...
Archives of endocrinology and metabolism 68, e230301 2024



Potential determinants of thyroid peroxidase antibodies and mortality risk: results from the ELSA-Brasil study
V Meneghini, WR Tebar, IS Santos, CCPS Janovsky, B de Almeida-Pititto, ...
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 109 (2), e698-e710 2024



The thyroid and Covid-19, volume II
G Brenta, MA Campinho, CR Nogueira, J Sgarbi
Frontiers in Endocrinology 14, 1331452 2023



The optimal healthy ranges of thyroid function defined by the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality: systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Y Xu, A Derakhshan, O Hysaj, L Wildisen, T Ittermann, A Pingitore, ...
The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology 11 (10), 743-754 2023



The relationship between type 1 diabetes mellitus, TNF-α, and IL-10 gene expression
JF dos Santos Haber, SM Barbalho, JA Sgarbi, RS de Argollo Haber, ...
Biomedicines 11 (4), 1120 2023



the thyroid and Covid-19, volume II
J Jimnez, MA Campinho, CR Nogueira, J Sgarbi
Frontiers Media 2023



New insights in thyroid and Covid-19
JA Sgarbi, CR Nogueira, G Brenta, MA Campinho
Frontiers in Endocrinology 13, 1112695 2022



Approach to adult patients with primary hypothyroidism in some special situations: a position statement from the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology
GMFS Mazeto, JA Sgarbi, HE Ramos, DGP Villagelin, CR Nogueira, ...
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism 66 (6), 871-882 2022



The optimal ranges of thyroid function based on the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality: an individual participant data meta-analysis
Y Xu, A Derakhshan, L Wildisen, O Hysaj, M Iacoviello, G Ceresini, ...
Endocrine Abstracts 84 2022



Thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroid hormones and incidence of diabetes: prospective results of the Brazilian longitudinal study of adult health (ELSA-BRASIL)
MG Birck, B Almeida-Pititto, CCPS Janovsky, AC Goulart, IS Santos, ...
Thyroid 32 (6), 694-704 2022



Chronic inflammatory diseases, subclinical atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular diseases: Design, objectives, and baseline characteristics of a prospective case-cohort study
IM Bensenor, AC Goulart, AC Pereira, AR Brunoni, A Alencar, RD Santos, ...
Clinics 77, 100013 2022



Incorporating Baseline Outcome Data in Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis of Non-randomized Studies
L Syrogiannouli, L Wildisen, C Meuwese, DC Bauer, AR Cappola, ...
Frontiers in psychiatry 13, 774251 2022



Level of physical activity and gene expression of IL-10 and TNF-α in children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes
JF dos Santos Haber, EFB Chagas, SM Barbalho, JA Sgarbi, ...
Journal of Diabetes and its Complications 36 (2), 108104 2022



Urinary iodine and sodium concentration and thyroid status in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
IM Benseor, FB Junior, CCPS Janovsky, D Marchioni, MFHS Diniz, ...
Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology 68, 126805 2021



Incidence of TPOAb over a 4-year follow-up period: results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
IM Benseor, CCPS Janovsky, AC Goulart, IS Santos, MFHS Diniz, ...
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism 65 (6), 832-840 2021



Incidence of thyroid diseases: results from the Brazilian longitudinal study of adult health (ELSA-brasil)
IM Benseor, JA Sgarbi, CCPS Janovsky, BA Pittito, MFHS Diniz, ...
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism 65, 468-478 2021

MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

Subclinical hypothyroidism and the risk of coronary heart disease and mortality
N Rodondi, WPJ Den Elzen, DC Bauer, AR Cappola, S Razvi, JP Walsh, ...
Jama 304 (12), 1365-1374 2010
Citations: 1596



Subclinical hyperthyroidism and the risk of coronary heart disease and mortality
TH Collet, J Gussekloo, DC Bauer, WPJ den Elzen, AR Cappola, ...
Archives of internal medicine 172 (10), 799-809 2012
Citations: 670



The effects of early antithyroid therapy for endogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism in clinical and heart abnormalities
JA Sgarbi, FG Villaca, B Garbeline, HE Villar, JH Romaldini
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 88 (4), 1672-1677 2003
Citations: 267



Subclinical hypothyroidism and the risk of stroke events and fatal stroke: an individual participant data analysis
L Chaker, C Baumgartner, WPJ Den Elzen, MA Ikram, MR Blum, TH Collet, ...
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 100 (6), 2181-2191 2015
Citations: 239



Clinical practice guidelines for the management of hypothyroidism
G Brenta, M Vaisman, JA Sgarbi, LM Bergoglio, NC Andrada, PP Bravo, ...
Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 57, 265-291 2013
Citations: 200



Subclinical thyroid dysfunctions are independent risk factors for mortality in a 7.5-year follow-up: the Japanese–Brazilian thyroid study
JA Sgarbi, LK Matsumura, TS Kasamatsu, SR Ferreira, RMB Maciel
European journal of endocrinology 162 (3), 569-577 2010
Citations: 171



Thyroid antibody status, subclinical hypothyroidism, and the risk of coronary heart disease: an individual participant data analysis
TH Collet, DC Bauer, AR Cappola, BO svold, S Weiler, E Vittinghoff, ...
The journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism 99 (9), 3353-3362 2014
Citations: 106



Thyroid function within the reference range and the risk of stroke: an individual participant data analysis
L Chaker, C Baumgartner, WPJ Den Elzen, TH Collet, MA Ikram, MR Blum, ...
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 101 (11), 4270-4282 2016
Citations: 99



Thyroid function within the normal range and risk of coronary heart disease: an individual participant data analysis of 14 cohorts
BO svold, LJ Vatten, T Bjro, DC Bauer, A Bremner, AR Cappola, ...
JAMA internal medicine 175 (6), 1037-1047 2015
Citations: 93



Disfunes mnimas da tiride: hipotiroidismo subclnico e hipertiroidismo subclnico
JH Romaldini, JA Sgarbi, CS Farah
Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 48, 147-158 2004
Citations: 66



Diretrizes clnicas prticas para o manejo do hipotiroidismo
G Brenta, M Vaisman, JA Sgarbi, LM Bergoglio, NC Andrada, PP Bravo, ...
Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 57, 265-291 2013
Citations: 63



Consenso brasileiro para a abordagem clnica e tratamento do hipotireoidismo subclnico em adultos: recomendaes do Departamento de Tireoide da Sociedade Brasileira de
JA Sgarbi, PFS Teixeira, LMZ Maciel, GMFS Mazeto, M Vaisman, ...
Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 57, 166-183 2013
Citations: 59



Pathogenesis of autoimmune thyroid diseases
JA Sgarbi, R Maciel
Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 53, 5-14 2009
Citations: 59



The Brazilian consensus for the clinical approach and treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism in adults: recommendations of the thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of
JA Sgarbi, PFS Teixeira, LMZ Maciel, GMFS Mazeto, M Vaisman, ...
Arquivos Brasileiros de Endocrinologia & Metabologia 57, 166-183 2013
Citations: 57



Parity is not related to autoimmune thyroid disease in a population-based study of Japanese-Brazilians
JA Sgarbi, TS Kasamatsu, LK Matsumura, RMB Maciel
Thyroid 20 (10), 1151-1156 2010
Citations: 54



Low thyroid function is not associated with an accelerated deterioration in renal function
CL Meuwese, M Van Diepen, AR Cappola, MJ Sarnak, MG Shlipak, ...
Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation 34 (4), 650-659 2019
Citations: 47



The optimal healthy ranges of thyroid function defined by the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality: systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Y Xu, A Derakhshan, O Hysaj, L Wildisen, T Ittermann, A Pingitore, ...
The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology 11 (10), 743-754 2023
Citations: 24



The relationship between type 1 diabetes mellitus, TNF-α, and IL-10 gene expression
JF dos Santos Haber, SM Barbalho, JA Sgarbi, RS de Argollo Haber, ...
Biomedicines 11 (4), 1120 2023
Citations: 24



Increase in the prevalence of abdominal obesity in Brazilian school children (2000–2015)
D Casagrande, PH Waib, JA Sgarbi
International Journal of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine 4 (4), 133-137 2017
Citations: 24



Management of thyroid disorders during the COVID-19 outbreak: a position statement from the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM)
JRM Martins, DGP Villagelin, GA Carvalho, F Vaisman, PFS Teixeira, ...
Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism 65, 368-375 2021
Citations: 21