Hypothyroidism during treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Aneta L Zygulska1, Krzysztof Krzemieniecki, Anna Sowa-Staszczak

  • 1Oncological Department, University Hospital, Krakow, Poland. zygulska@poczta.onet.pl

Endokrynologia Polska
|August 31, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors can cause hypothyroidism, a common side effect impacting cancer treatment response. Monitoring thyroid function is crucial for patients undergoing this targeted therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are targeted therapies for various metastatic cancers.
  • Hypothyroidism is a frequent side effect of TKI treatment.
  • Thyroid dysfunction management presents challenges for oncologists.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the incidence and implications of hypothyroidism in patients treated with TKIs.
  • To highlight the necessity of thyroid hormone monitoring during TKI therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on TKIs and hypothyroidism.
  • Analysis of specific TKIs: Sunitinib, Sorafenib, Imatinib, and Motesanib.
  • Examination of hypothyroidism prevalence and clinical manifestations.

Main Results:

  • Hypothyroidism is a common side effect, particularly with Sunitinib and Imatinib.
  • Incidence ranges from 18% (Sorafenib) to 22-69% (Motesanib).
  • Hypothyroidism correlates with objective treatment response and can necessitate interventions like tracheotomy.

Conclusions:

  • Monitoring thyroid function before and during TKI treatment is essential.
  • Early detection and management of hypothyroidism are critical for patient care.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of TKI-induced hypothyroidism.

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