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A pregnant woman with an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule: a case report
Masakazu Notsu1, Mika Yamauchi1, Toshitsugu Sugimoto2
1Department of Internal Medicine 1, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo, Shimane, Japan.
Summary
Pregnancy can stimulate growth and hormone overproduction in autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs). This case highlights pregnancy as a potential trigger for AFTN diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Thyroidology
Background:
- The epidemiology and natural history of autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTNs) remain poorly understood.
- This report details a case of an AFTN in a pregnant Japanese woman.
Observation:
- A 31-year-old pregnant woman presented with a growing thyroid nodule.
- Thyroid hormone levels increased during pregnancy, leading to thyrotoxicosis.
- The nodule was diagnosed as an AFTN post-delivery via scintigraphy.
Findings:
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation during pregnancy exacerbated thyroid nodule enlargement and hormone production.
- The patient experienced thyrotoxicosis, confirmed as AFTN post-pregnancy.
Implications:
- Pregnancy can act as a pathological stimulus, leading to AFTN development or exacerbation.
- This case underscores the importance of considering AFTNs in pregnant patients with thyroid abnormalities.
- Early diagnosis and management of AFTNs during pregnancy are crucial for maternal and fetal well-being.
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