Correlation between Diabetes Mellitus and Thyroid Dysfunction: Genetic Basis and Literature Review

Background: Co-existence of both thyroid dysfunction and diabetes mellitus is increasing in prevalence and is seen among many patients. The reason for this co-existence is not well known. Many different studies have been performed globally to ascertain this relationship. Aim: The aim of this study was to access the correlation between thyroid dysfunction and Type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. Method: Using internet search, a comprehensive literature review was done and words such as diabetes mellitus, thyroid, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid antibodies, and thyroid problems were searched from Google scholar, Yahoo, PubMed, Medline, Web MD, and Scopus to check for various articles published on any probable link. The references of the relevant articles on this subject were also searched for further information. Results: Analyses of results of various studies from various parts of the world were considered and their prevalence was noted to access the correlation between thyroid dysfunction and diabetes mellitus. Subclinical hypothyroidism is seen as the commonest thyroid problem among female type 1diabetes. Conclusion: There is a strong relationship between thyroid dysfunction and Type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. KEYWORDS: Thyroid; Type 1diabetes; Antibodies; Type 2 diabetes; Dysfunctio