Final answer:
The common metabolic abnormality in patients with hypothyroidism is a low metabolic rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The metabolic abnormality that is common in patients with hypothyroidism is a low metabolic rate.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, resulting in a slower metabolism. This can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, cold sensitivity, low heart rate, and fatigue.
For example, patients with hypothyroidism may have difficulty losing weight or may gain weight even with normal or reduced caloric intake due to the reduced metabolic rate.