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Early thyrotoxic thyroiditis after radiotherapy for tonsillar carcinoma
M Bryer-Ash1, W Lodhi, K Robbins
1Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Memphis, TN 38103. mbryerash@utmem.edu
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|February 15, 2001
Summary
External beam radiotherapy can cause hyperthyroidism due to thyrotoxic thyroiditis. Early thyroid function evaluation after treatment is recommended to identify this treatable complication.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Thyroiditis with hyperthyroidism is a known complication of internal radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy.
- It is rarely described after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) to the thyroid bed.
Observation:
- A patient presented with hyperthyroidism symptoms post-EBRT for tonsillar carcinoma.
- Diagnostic tests confirmed thyrotoxic thyroiditis within two weeks of completing radiotherapy.
Findings:
- External beam radiotherapy can induce thyrotoxic thyroiditis.
- This condition is self-limited and treatable, presenting with symptoms that may mimic cancer recurrence or treatment side effects.
Implications:
- Routine thyroid function testing post-EBRT is crucial.
- Early diagnosis and management of radiation-induced thyrotoxic thyroiditis can prevent misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate patient care.