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Thyroid function after postoperative radiation therapy in patients with breast cancer
Acta Radiologica. Oncology
|May 1, 1986
Summary
Breast cancer radiation therapy can impact thyroid function. A study found 6% of patients developed hypothyroidism and 15% had elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, necessitating thyroid monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Breast cancer survivors treated with radiation therapy may experience long-term side effects.
- Thyroid function can be affected by radiation exposure to the neck and chest areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess thyroid function in breast cancer patients years after radiation therapy.
- To determine the prevalence of hypothyroidism and subclinical thyroid dysfunction in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassay was used to measure serum thyroid stimulating hormone (S-TSH) and thyroxine (S-T4) levels.
- Sera from 80 breast cancer patients, irradiated 7.2 +/- 1.0 years prior, were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Five patients (6%) exhibited hypothyroidism (low S-T4, elevated S-TSH).
- Twelve patients (15%) presented with elevated S-TSH levels and normal S-T4, indicating subclinical thyroid dysfunction.
- Radiation doses were 45 Gy delivered over 3-4 weeks to parasternal, supraclavicular, and axillary areas.
Conclusions:
- Radiation therapy for breast cancer is associated with a significant risk of thyroid dysfunction.
- Shielding the thyroid gland during irradiation is recommended to minimize damage.
- Long-term follow-up with regular thyroid hormone monitoring is crucial for early detection and management of thyroid abnormalities in breast cancer survivors.