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Radioiodine therapy in voluminous multinodular non-toxic goitre
J Verelst1, M Bonnyns, D Glinoer
1Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium.
Acta Endocrinologica
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Radioactive iodine effectively shrinks large goiters, improving compression symptoms in patients. While generally safe, long-term hypothyroidism affects all patients, necessitating hormone replacement therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nuclear Medicine
Background:
- Compressive voluminous goiters can cause significant patient morbidity.
- Surgical intervention for goiters carries inherent risks, especially in elderly or medically compromised patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy for compressive goiters.
Main Methods:
- 15 euthyroid patients with compressive goiters received large doses of radioiodine.
- Goiter size and compression symptoms were monitored over time.
- Adverse reactions and development of hypothyroidism were recorded.
Main Results:
- All patients experienced a significant reduction in goiter size (average 39%).
- Maximal goiter size reduction was observed within 24-30 months.
- No significant local adverse reactions were noted; however, 30% developed hypothyroidism within 2 years, increasing to 100% by 8 years.
Conclusions:
- Radioactive iodine therapy is an effective alternative to surgery for compressive goiters, particularly when surgery is contraindicated.
- Long-term monitoring for and management of hypothyroidism is essential following RAI treatment.