Radio-iodine-induced hypoparathyroidism. A case report

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder often treated with radioactive iodine (131I).
• 131I therapy targets thyroid cells to reduce hormone production.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old Black woman presented with hypoparathyroidism after receiving 131I for hyperthyroidism.
• This represents a very rare complication of this treatment modality.

Findings:

• The patient exhibited clinical and biochemical evidence of hypoparathyroidism.
• Literature review confirms the rarity of this adverse event.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be aware of the potential for hypoparathyroidism post-131I therapy.
• Monitoring parathyroid function after 131I treatment may be warranted in select cases.