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A direct relationship between thyroid enlargement and breast cancer
P P Smyth1, D F Smith, E W McDermott
1Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University College, Dublin, Ireland.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|March 1, 1996
Summary
This study found significantly larger thyroid volumes in women with breast cancer and benign breast disease compared to controls. These findings highlight a potential association between thyroid and breast disorders.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- The relationship between thyroid and breast diseases remains unclear.
- Previous studies have not definitively established a direct link.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between thyroid volume and breast diseases.
- To compare thyroid volumes in patients with breast cancer and benign breast disease to control groups.
Main Methods:
- Thyroid volume was measured using ultrasound in 200 breast cancer patients, 354 benign breast disease patients, and control groups.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare mean thyroid volumes and the prevalence of enlarged thyroid glands.
Main Results:
- Patients with breast cancer exhibited significantly larger mean thyroid volumes (21.1 mL) and higher prevalence of enlarged thyroid glands (41.5%) compared to controls (13.2 mL, 10.5%).
- Patients with benign breast disease also showed significantly increased mean thyroid volume (14.5 mL) compared to younger controls (12.5 mL).
- Thyroid volumes in breast cancer patients remained consistent before and after therapy, suggesting a persistent association.
Conclusions:
- The study supports a direct association between breast cancer and increased thyroid volume.
- While thyroid enlargement may not be a risk factor for breast cancer, the findings underscore the importance of recognizing the co-occurrence of these conditions.