Thyroid function following radiation and surgical therapy in head and neck malignancy

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology

Background:

• Head and neck cancers are frequently treated with radiation therapy, surgery, or combined modalities.
• Thyroid function can be affected by treatments involving the neck region.

Observation:

• A 10-year retrospective review analyzed 144 patients treated for head and neck cancer.
• Hypothyroidism was identified post-treatment in five patients, all with laryngeal malignancy.

Findings:

• These five hypothyroid patients experienced complications including pharyngeal fistula and skin flap necrosis.
• No other patient groups treated for head and neck malignancies showed signs of thyroid hypofunction.

Implications:

• Periodic thyroid function evaluation is essential for patients undergoing neck irradiation or combined therapy.
• Hormonal replacement therapy may be critical for resolving complications like pharyngeal fistula and reducing patient disability.