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Thyroid dysfunction after radiation therapy in head and neck cancer patients
T A Tami1, P Gomez, G S Parker
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Francisco.
American Journal of Otolaryngology
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Radiation therapy significantly increases the risk of thyroid dysfunction in head and neck cancer patients, especially when combined with surgery. Routine thyroid function tests are recommended for early detection and management.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Hypothyroidism incidence after head and neck cancer treatment varies.
- Thyroid gland is often included in radiation portals and surgical procedures like laryngectomy.
- Hypothyroidism can develop insidiously and be misdiagnosed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of thyroid dysfunction in patients undergoing head and neck cancer therapy.
- To identify factors contributing to thyroid dysfunction post-treatment.
Main Methods:
- Thyroid function tests were conducted on 100 consecutive head and neck cancer patients.
- Patients received surgery only, radiation therapy only, or combined therapy.
- Chi-square analysis was used for statistical comparison of dysfunction rates.
Main Results:
- Thyroid dysfunction rates were 0% (surgery only), 29% (radiation only), and 45% (combined therapy).
- Combined laryngectomy and radiation therapy showed the highest dysfunction rate (69%).
- Radiation therapy was identified as a primary factor in thyroid function alteration.
Conclusions:
- Radiation therapy, particularly combined with surgery involving thyroid lobectomy, significantly elevates the risk of thyroid dysfunction.
- The findings underscore the importance of radiation therapy as a key factor in post-treatment thyroid alterations.
- Routine thyroid function testing is recommended for all head and neck cancer patients during follow-up.