[Dysthyroidism with anti-VEGF treatment, a class effect? about one case report]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are a significant class of drugs used in treating various cancers.
• Thyroid dysfunction, or dysthyroidism, is an emerging class effect associated with TKI therapy.

Observation:

• This report details a patient who experienced thyroid abnormalities during cancer treatment.
• The patient initially developed dysthyroidism while on sunitinib therapy.
• Subsequently, the introduction of axitinib led to severe and persistent hypothyroidism.

Findings:

• The sequential use of sunitinib and axitinib resulted in escalating thyroid dysfunction.
• Axitinib appeared to induce a more profound and permanent hypothyroid state compared to sunitinib.
• This suggests a potential cumulative or additive effect of these TKIs on thyroid function.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be vigilant for thyroid dysfunction in patients treated with TKIs.
• Monitoring thyroid function is crucial during and after TKI therapy.
• The findings highlight the need for further research into the mechanisms and management of TKI-induced thyroid disease.