Increased reverse T3 concentration in patients with anorexia nerrosa

In 20 female patients with anorexia nervosa, aging 16 - 26 years, the thyroid function was estimated by +- determining TSH secretion in response to TRH, and serum thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3'L-triiodothyronine (T3) and 3,3',5'L-triiodothyronine (reverse T3) concentrations. 14 healthy women of the same age were included into the control group. If compared with control group, a marked supression of TRH stimulated TSH secretion and a lowering of serum T3 concentration was found in patients with anorexia nervosa. On the other hand, serum reverse T3 concentration was markedly higher in patients with anorexia nervosa than in control ones. Gain of body weight leads to normalization of thyroid hormones level in the serum. Obtained results show for peripheral mechanism of described hormonal disorders. (author)