Thyroid Hypo-Function:Neuropsychological Issues

Hypothyroidism has been associated with various neuropsychological issues that range from general mental dysfunction to specific cognitive domains such as memory, working memory, attention, visuospatial functions and language. These neuropsychological issues or deficits are found, in some cases, reversible while in some cases permanent, the current article reviewed various studies which have taken up these issues. The article starts with a brief introduction which throws light on endocrinological underpinnings of the thyroid gland with a brief reference to symptoms, pathophysiology, and epidemiology of thyroid hypo-function. Later, the article gives an overview of the prevalent research methodology used in this area of research. Further, the article discusses various types of neurocognitive deficits present in thyroid hypo-function followed by a discussion on their reversibility pattern. Following this, the article discusses the impact of thyroid hormone on brain and makes an attempt to delineate neuroanatomical correlates of thyroid hypo-function and neurocognitive deficits. Lastly, the article discusses how mood can be a potential confounder while establishing an association between neurocognitive deficits and thyroid hypo-function. The article concludes by discussing various limitations seen in the studies reviewed and identifies prospective areas for further research.