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An iodine load from water-purification tablets alters thyroid function in humans
W J Georgitis1, M T McDermott, G S Kidd
1Department of Medicine, Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045-5001.
Military Medicine
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Water purification tablets containing tetraglycine hydroperiodide can temporarily affect thyroid function. Short-term use in a field setting led to mild thyroid impairment in healthy adults.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Tetraglycine hydroperiodide tablets are utilized for purifying drinking water in field conditions.
- Stable iodide administration can impact thyroid function in healthy adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of water purification tablets on thyroid function in normal adults during a military field exercise.
Main Methods:
- 14 healthy volunteers were studied over 2 weeks in a field environment.
- Half received 4 tablets (32 mg free iodine) daily for 7 days; the other half served as controls.
- Thyroid function parameters including thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and TSH were measured.
Main Results:
- The treatment group showed a 14% reduction in thyroxine and 15% in triiodothyronine.
- Basal TSH increased by 122% and TSH response to TRH by 49% in the treatment group.
- Two subjects in the treatment group exhibited TSH levels above the normal range.
Conclusions:
- One week of exposure to iodine from these water purification tablets causes mild thyroid function impairment in humans.
- The effects were transient and observed in a controlled field setting.
- Further research may be needed to understand long-term implications.