[Iodine-131 therapy for large goiter with hyperthyroidism: clinical observation of 38 cases]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of iodine-131 therapy for large goiter complicated by hyperthyroidism.

Methods: After the diagnosis of large goiter complicated by hyperthyroidism was established, the weight of the patient's thyroid gland was determined, and the doses of iodine-131 calculated according to the formula currently available. After a single dose of oral iodine-131 capsule, the patients were observed for the therapeutic efficacy and side effects. Some patients were given the second or even the third dose of iodine-131.

Results: All of the 38 patients were cured by 1 to 3 single doses of iodine-131 therapy, of whom 23 (60.5%) needed only a single dose for the cure, 13 (34.2%) required the second dose, and 2 (5.3%) necessitate a third dose. Hypothyroidism occurred in 4 cases (10.5%), and none of the patients developed hyperthyroidism crisis and dyspnea.

Conclusions: Iodine-131 therapy for serious goiter with hyperthyroidism is safe and effective, which can be used as a routine therapy for this condition.