PREVALENCE AND CLINICAL PROFILE OF THYROID DYSFUNCTION IN ADULTS PRESENTING WITH NEW-ONSET SEIZURES: A RETROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Thyroid dysfunction alters neuronal excitability and may lower the seizure threshold. However, its prevalence among adults presenting with first-ever seizures is not well described in India. This retrospective observational study evaluated the prevalence of previously undiagnosed thyroid dysfunction and its association with seizure characteristics and in-hospital outcomes. Hospital records of adults (≥18 years) admitted with first-ever seizures between January and December 2025 were reviewed. Patients with known epilepsy, thyroid disease, CNS infections, stroke, intracranial tumours, alcohol withdrawal, pregnancy and major metabolic abnormalities were excluded. Demographic details, thyroid function tests, EEG, MRI findings and hospital outcomes were analysed using Chi-square and Student’s t-test (p<0.05). Among 150 patients (mean age 44.8±17.2 years; 61.3% male), thyroid dysfunction was identified in 27 (18.0%). Hypothyroidism accounted for most abnormalities. Patients with thyroid dysfunction had higher seizure recurrence (22.2% vs 8.1%, p=0.03), more abnormal EEGs (59.3% vs 38.2%, p=0.04) and longer hospital stay (5.8±2.3 vs 4.1±1.8 days, p=0.01). MRI abnormalities were more frequent but not statistically significant (44.4% vs 33.3%, p=0.28). Previously unrecognised thyroid dysfunction was detected in nearly one-fifth of adults with first-ever seizures. Selective thyroid function testing may identify reversible endocrine disorders and improve diagnostic evaluation and management.