TNF and hypothyroidism: These include the presence of TNF-α receptors in human thyroid tissue [7], TNF-α induced inhibition of thyroid function in rats [8], elevated TNF-α and its receptor in cases of hypothyroidism [9], a relationship between TNF-α and exacerbations of pre-existing hypothyroidism [10], and the fact that infliximab decreases thyroid hormone replacement requirements in pre-existing hypothyroidism [11].