Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT171

Introduction: The treatment of hyperthyroidism often involves antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine therapy (RIT), and surgery. Although effective, these therapeutic approaches can lead to complications that impact patient outcomes. This study aims to describe and analyze the complications associated with hyperthyroidism treatment in our cohort.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients treated for hyperthyroidism in our center. Data on treatment-related complications, including their nature, onset, and outcomes, were collected and analyzed.

Results: 31 patients were diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Eleven patients had received treatment with synthetic antithyroid drugs alone. Seventeen patients were treated with radioactive iodine. Of these, 8 were initially treated with RIT and was used after failure of ATDs or intolerance to in 9 patients. A second course of RIT was indicated in 2 patients. Only one patient had a total thyroidectomy. Surgical treatment was indicated in view of resistance to TSA, poor socioeconomic conditions, association with T1DM and the patient’s young age. Leukopenia secondary to ATDs was observed in one patient, requiring discontinuation of the therapy and initiation of RIT. Iatrogenic hypothyroidism occurred in 15 patients. Among these, 12 cases were attributed to RIT, with a mean time to onset of 3 years (extremes: 5 months to 6 years). Two cases followed ATD therapy, with a mean onset time of 2.5 years (extremes: 1.5 to 3.5 years). One case resulted from total thyroidectomy. ANCA-associated vasculitis was reported in two patients treated with benzylthiouracil (Basdene). One case resolved favorably, while the other resulted in a fatal outcome.

Conclusion: Treatment-related complications in hyperthyroidism range from manageable conditions, such as hypothyroidism, to severe and potentially fatal outcomes like ANCA-associated vasculitis. These findings underscore the need for careful patient monitoring and the selection of tailored therapeutic strategies to minimize risks and optimize outcomes.