There is evidence that mercury accumulation in the thyroid can cause endocrine and immune disorders. Riverside populations of the Amazon with a history of prolonged exposure to mercury have been investigated for neurological damage, but little is known about the hormonal disorders and specific immune thyroid. The objective of this study is to verify the existence of association between the total mercury concentrations in hair samples and concentrations of thyroid hormones and the anti-TPO antibody. The study included 86 riverine from Tapajos region mercury exposed to long-term. Participated this study men and women aged between 14 and 54 years, residents in place for more than five years. Measurements of serum hormone concentrations (TSH, T3 and free T4) and Anti-TPO titles were taken by enzyme immunoassay. Total mercury (THg) in hair samples was measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry by cold vapor technique. Hormonal dysfunction occurred in 10.3% with an increase of T3, 2.3% with a reduction of T4L, 3.4% decrease in TSH and 4.6% with increased TSH expressed that the maximum value of 8.9 μU/m. Anti-TPO titles were normal in all participants. There was no correlation of hormonal markers (TSH, T3 and T4L) or the Anti-TPO with mercury levels. The results showed that THg concentrations in hair, serum TSH and anti-TPO titles were not influenced by sex; that hormonal changes in thyroid studied riparian not associated with the levels of THg suggesting the interference of protector factors on thyroid function.
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