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Updated: May 19, 2026

Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia
Published on: September 18, 2013
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
Abstract:
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are relatively new targeted therapy drugs used for the treatment of metastatic clear cell kidney carcinoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumours, thyroid carcinoma and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours during the progression of the disease. Hypothyroidism or thyroid dysfunction is often a side effect of this treatment. Therefore, monitoring of thyroid hormone levels before the beginning and during the treatment of tyrosine kinase inhibitors is a necessity. Hypothyroidism correlates with objective response to the treatment. Sunitinib. This is the most described tyrosine kinase inhibitor which causes hypothyroidism. The mechanism of hypothyroidism is still unclear. Sorafenib. Symptoms of hypothyroidism occur in 18% of patients treated with sorafenib due to metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Imatinib. Hypothyroidism is one of the most frequent side effects of the treatment. Emergent tracheotomy was necessary due to larynx swelling during marked hypothyroidism. Motesanib. Hypothyroidism or increased TSH level is diagnosed in 22% to 69% of patients with metastatic differentiated or medullary thyroid carcinomas. The management of patients with thyroid dysfunction and related symptoms such as fatigue is undoubtedly a challenge to an oncologist.
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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