Management of thyroid disorders in older people

Abstract

Thyroid disorders are common in older people and cause significant morbidity. There may be fewer symptoms at presentation and increased susceptibility to adverse events, making diagnosis and management more challenging. The approach to management of thyroid disorders in older people differs from that for younger individuals. Factors that need to be considered include frailty, concurrent illness, polypharmacy, drug–drug interactions, and target organ sensitivity to treatment. This review discusses the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and management of thyroid disorders and the effects of medications on thyroid function in older people.