Immunological changes and thyroid function during pregnancy and postpartum period [Alterações imunológicas e da função tiroideia na gravidez e no período pós-parto]

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2015

Authors

Barreira, JF (Author) Other; Neves, C (Author) Other; Esteves, C (Author) Other; Delgado, L (Author) FMUP; Medina, JL (Author) Other; Carvalho, Davide (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Arquivos de Medicina

Vol. 29

Pages: 56-60

ISSN: 0871-3413

Publisher: A E F M U P, Alameda prof. H. Montiero

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00K-TEC

Abstract (EN): Pregnancy is associated with a transient and selective tolerance for paternal alloantigens through local placental and systemic immune mechanisms, influenced by hormonal changes. This state prevents the rejection of the fetus which is a semi-allograft and allows the occurrence of fetal microchimerism. In the postpartum period the immune changes are not immediately reversed, but gradually go back to usual state within 12 months after delivery. There is also a physiological adaptation of thyroid gland to pregnancy, occurring a stimulation of the gland by hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin) and an inverse correlation between this and TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone); an increase in total T4 (Thyroxine) and T3 (Triiodothyronine); an increase in thyroid volume, particularly in areas of inadequate iodine intake; and a state of relative deficiency of iodine. It is recommended a daily intake of 250 ¿g. There are specific reference ranges for TSH in each trimester. This review article aims to systematize immunological and physiological changes in the thyroid function that occur during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific