Clinical Report: Utilizing FT3 and the TyG Index for Assessing MCI Risk
Overview
This study investigates the associations of free triiodothyronine (FT3) and the triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in euthyroid patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Background
Cognitive impairment is a significant complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with patients exhibiting a higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Thyroid hormones, particularly FT3, may play a role in cognitive function.
Data Highlights
Measure
AUC
95% CI
FT3 alone
0.761
0.721–0.802
TyG index alone
0.571
0.520–0.622
Combined FT3–TyG model
0.766
0.726–0.807
Key Findings
Lower FT3 levels are associated with increased odds of MCI in euthyroid T2DM patients.
The relationship between the TyG index and MCI is nonlinear, with an inflection point at TyG = 9.24.
FT3 alone demonstrated good discriminative performance for identifying MCI (AUC = 0.761).
The combined FT3–TyG model showed an AUC of 0.766, indicating good discriminative ability.
FT3 provides additional granularity for distinguishing MCI risk in individuals with higher TyG levels.
Clinical Implications
The findings suggest that FT3 and the TyG index may serve as useful metabolic indicators for identifying individuals at higher risk of MCI in T2DM. Clinicians should consider these factors in cognitive risk stratification for their patients.
Conclusion
The study highlights the associations of FT3 and the TyG index with cognitive impairment risk in euthyroid patients with T2DM.
