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Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia
10:49

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Tyrosine kinase inhibitors and the thyroid as both an unintended and an intended target

Marion L Vetter1, Shailja Kaul, Nayyar Iqbal

  • 1Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19146, USA.

Endocrine Practice : Official Journal of the American College of Endocrinology and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists
|August 30, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sunitinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is frequently associated with hypothyroidism, often developing within 12-50 weeks. This condition is typically reversible upon treatment cessation and warrants regular thyroid monitoring.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Sunitinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in cancer therapy.
  • Thyroid dysfunction, specifically hypothyroidism, has been observed in patients treated with sunitinib.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the association between sunitinib and hypothyroidism.
  • To determine the onset, mechanisms, reversibility, and duration of sunitinib-induced hypothyroidism.

Main Methods:

  • A MEDLINE search of English-language literature was conducted.
  • Keywords included "sunitinib," "tyrosine kinase inhibitors," "thyroid," and "hypothyroidism."
  • Original studies and reviews on sunitinib and thyroid function were identified.

Main Results:

  • Hypothyroidism incidence ranged from 36% to 46% in prospective studies, and 53% to 85% in combined retrospective and prospective studies.
  • Mean time to onset was 12 to 50 weeks, with risk increasing with duration of therapy.
  • Hypothyroidism was generally reversible after discontinuing sunitinib.

Conclusions:

  • Baseline thyroid function tests are recommended before initiating sunitinib.
  • Frequent thyroid function monitoring is crucial throughout sunitinib treatment.
  • Prompt initiation of levothyroxine therapy is advised if hypothyroidism develops.

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