Manejo del paciente con Hipertiroidismo en consulta externa de la Unidad Técnica de Endocrinología del Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín / Management of the patient with hyperthyroidism in the outpatient clinic of the Technical Unit of Endocrinology of the Endocrinology Technical Unit of the Carlos Andrade Marín Hospital

El hipertiroidismo es un trastorno caracterizado por el exceso de hormonas tiroideas. El déficit de yodo es un factor clave en dicha patología y en lugares con suficiencia del mismo se asocian a au-toinmunidad tiroidea. La prevalencia de hipertiroidismo mani-fiesto varía del 0,2% al 1,3% en áreas con suficiencia de yodo, sin embargo, esto puede variar en cada país por diferencias en umbrales de diagnóstico, sensibilidad de ensayo y población se-leccionada. Un reporte de The Third National Health and Nutri-tion Examination Survey (NHANES III) mostró que el hiperti-roidismo manifiesto se presenta en 0,7% de la población general e hipertiroidismo subclínico en el 1,7%1,2.En incidencia, la patología se asocia con la suplementación de yodo, con la mayor frecuencia en áreas de deficiencias, por au-mento de nódulos tiroideos en la población anciana, teniendo a regiones de áreas montañosas como América del Sur, África Central y suroeste de Asia dentro de este grupo. Un meta aná-lisis de estudios europeos mostró una incidencia general de 50 casos por 100000 personas/años1. En Ecuador, según los datos del Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas y Censos (INEC) del 2017, se reportaron 157 casos de hipertiroidismo, de los cuales la En-fermedad de Graves (EG) fue la causa más común, seguida por el bocio multinodular tóxico (BMNT) y finalmente el adenoma tóxico (AT) con una incidencia de 61 %, 24 % y 14 % respecti-vamente3.Los pacientes con esta patología tienen aumento de riesgo com-plicaciones cardiovasculares y mortalidad por todas las causas, siendo falla cardíaca uno de sus principales desenlaces, así el diagnóstico precoz evita estos eventos, principalmente en pobla-ción de edad avanzada.El presente protocolo se ha realizado para un correcto trata-miento de esta patología en el Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín (HECAM).

Hyperthyroidism is a disorder characterized by an excess of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency is a key factor in this pa-thology and in places with iodine deficiency it is associated with thyroid autoimmunity. The prevalence of overt hyperthyroidism varies from 0,2% to 1,3% in iodine-sufficient areas; however, this may vary from country to country due to differences in diag-nostic thresholds, assay sensitivity, and selected population. A report from The Third National Health and Nutrition Examina-tion Survey (NHANES III) showed that overt hyperthyroidism occurs in 0,7% of the general population and subclinical hyper-thyroidism in 1,7%1,2.In incidence, the pathology is associated with iodine supplemen-tation, with the highest frequency in areas of deficiencies, due to increased thyroid nodules in the elderly population, having regions of mountainous areas such as South America, Central Africa and Southwest Asia within this group. A meta-analysis of European studies showed an overall incidence of 50 cases per 100000 person/years1. In Ecuador, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) in 2017, 157 cases of hyperthyroidism were reported, of which, Graves' di-sease (GD) was the most common cause, followed by toxic mul-tinodular goiter (BMNT) and finally toxic adenoma (TA) with an incidence of 61 %, 24 % and 14 % respectively3.Patients with this pathology have an increased risk of cardiovas-cular complications and all-cause mortality, with heart failure being one of the main outcomes, so early diagnosis avoids these events, mainly in the elderly population.The present protocol has been carried out for the correct treat-ment of this pathology at the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital (HECAM).

Uso adecuado de las pruebas de laboratorio para la evaluación de la función tiroidea en pediatría / Appropriate use of laboratory tests for evaluation of thyroid function in pediatrics

Las pruebas de función tiroidea (PFT) son esenciales para el diagnóstico preciso y el seguimiento eficaz de la disfunción tiroidea. Existe un incremento progresivo y estable de los pedidos de PFT, incluso se han incorporado las mismas a los exámenes de salud anuales en niños sanos. Representan más del 60% de las pruebas realizadas en el laboratorio de endocrinología, tanto en adultos como en los laboratorios especializados en pediatría. Para hacer un uso eficiente de las PFT, antes de solicitarlas debemos preguntarnos… ¿Para quién? ¿Cuándo solicitarlas? ¿Qué pruebas solicitar? ¿Cómo solicitarlas? y ¿Cómo interpretar correctamente los resultados? Un resultado anormal en las PFT no siempre implica patología tiroidea asociada. Las PFT tienen importante variabilidad intra e interindividual lo que hace más compleja su correcta interpretación. La pesquisa de enfermedad tiroidea neonatal es un importante aporte a la prevención de la deficiencia mental en la infancia, su aplicación obligatoria posibilita un diagnóstico temprano, para asegurar su éxito debe considerarse en el marco de un programa integral de detección con estrategias de confirmación, tratamiento temprano y seguimiento a corto, mediano y largo plazo. No debe hacerse un uso indiscriminado de la prueba de estímulo con TRH en el diagnóstico de la patología tiroidea. En pediatría la estrategia de tamiz de enfermedad tiroidea es conveniente realizarla mediante la medición de por lo menos TSH y T4 libre e incluir la determinación de ATPO en grupos de riesgo, a diferencia de la determinación aislada de TSH como es recomendado en adultos. (AU)

Thyroid function tests (TFTs) are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective monitoring of thyroid dysfunction. There is a progressive and steady increase in requests for TFTs, and they have even been incorporated into annual health examinations in healthy children. They represent more than 60% of the tests performed in the endocrinology laboratory, both in adults and in specialized pediatric laboratories. To efficiently use TFTs, before requesting them we should ask ourselves... For whom? When to request them? Which tests to request? How to request them? and How to correctly interpret the results? An abnormal TFT result does not always imply thyroid disease. TFTs have significant intra- and inter-individual variability, which makes their correct interpretation more complex. Screening for newborn thyroid disease is an important contribution to the prevention of intellectual disability in childhood and its mandatory use enables early diagnosis; however, to ensure the test to be successful, it should be considered within the framework of a comprehensive screening program with strategies for confirmation, early treatment, and short-, medium-, and long-term follow-up. The TRH stimulation test in the diagnosis of thyroid disease should not be used indiscriminately. In children, the screening strategy for thyroid disease should be performed by measuring at least TSH and free T4 and include the measurement of TPO-ab in risk groups, as opposed to the isolated measurement of TSH as recommended in adults. (AU)

An Interesting Endocrine Cause of Pyrexia of Unknown Origin: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO) is one of the most challenging medical problems. Endocrine causes of PUO are rare. Fever is common in a few endocrine disorders (e.g., thyroid storm, adrenal crisis and pheochromocytoma). However, PUO as the sole presenting feature is very rare with only a few reported cases in the literature. We present the case of a middle-aged male who came to us with PUO, weight loss and loss of appetite. The unusual symptomatology like loss of appetite, altered bowel habits made diagnosis difficult. This case highlights the importance of considering thyroid disorder in the differential diagnosis of PUO. Abnormal thyroid function may be an early clue for diagnosis.

A study on lipid profile in thyroid dysfunction

Background: Thyroid diseases are among the most common endocrine disorders worldwide. Thyroid hormones play a key role in regulating the synthesis, metabolism, and mobilization of lipids. Levels of circulating lipids may alter in thyroid dysfunction. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to find out the alterations of lipid levels in thyroid dysfunction. Materials and Methods: The study was designed as cross-sectional observational study and analysis of values was done by significant tests difference in means. 20 patients with hypothyroidism, 20 patients with hyperthyroidism, and 20 normal were participated in the study. Levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), LDL-C, and LDL/HDL ratio were estimated and compared. Results: In patients with hypothyroidism, there was an increase in total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglyceride levels and decrease in HDL-C levels. In hyperthyroidism, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and LDL/HDL ratio were found to be significantly decreased. Conclusion: Altered thyroid function can lead to significant changes in the lipid profile. Hypothyroidism is an important risk factor for heart diseases. Hence, routine screening of thyroid hormones may be of considerable help for early intervention and treatment of thyroid dysfunction-related cardiac disease.

Spectrum of thyroid disorders in tertiary care hospital at Patancheru, Sangareddy, Telangana, India - A clinical study

Malnutrition, particularly iodine deficiency, is one of the major contributing factors to thyroid disorders in India. Poverty in India is contributing to the increase of thyroid disorders through malnutrition, poor sanitation, and lack of access to medical facilities. Another factor is the lack of awareness about the symptoms and risk factors of thyroid disorders. Intake recommendations for iodine are provided in the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) developed by the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. WHO recommends universal iodinization of salt. High levels of iodine intake sometimes are associated with an increased risk of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or autoimmune thyroiditis. We conducted a retrospective study at our hospital from December 2017 to January 2023. A total number of 57 cases were studied. Out of 57 patients, 46 patients presented with hypothyroidism and 11 with hyperthyroidism. Various clinical presentations, pathologies and socioeconomic problems are discussed.

Thyroid Dysfunction in Adults with Newly Detected Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Background: Thyroid disorders and diabetes mellitus are common endocrine disorders that often coexist and can significantly impact each other’s management. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes be periodically screened for thyroid dysfunction due to the strong link between the two conditions. It is important for individuals to be aware of the risk factors for both conditions and to seek appropriate medical care if necessary, and for healthcare providers to consider testing for thyroid dysfunction in adults with newly detected type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of the study was to find out thyroid dysfunction in adults with newly detected type 2 diabetes mellitus. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at the Departments of Medicine and Endocrinology at Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital in Dhaka. The study period lasted six months, from May to October 2019. A total of 102 adult patients (above 20 years old) with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus who were attending the Endocrinology and Medicine Outpatient Department participated in the study. Results: Out of 102 adults with newly detected type 2 diabetes mellitus, the majority (86.3%) had normal thyroid function (euthyroid), while a smaller number (13.7%) had thyroid dysfunction. The most common subgroup of thyroid dysfunction was subclinical hypothyroidism (7.8%), followed by hypothyroidism (3.9%), subclinical thyrotoxicosis (1.0%), and hyperthyroidism (1.0%). The majority of the study population was male (66%) and from urban areas (88%), with a mean age of 45.1 years, a mean BMI of 25.0 kg/m2, and a mean waist circumference of 98.4 cm. About 45% had a family history of diabetes mellitus and 37% were smokers. The blood pressure of the study population was within normal limits. A minority (30%) had co-morbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and ischemic heart disease. The predictors of thyroid dysfunction were observed Age (OR=0.785), F/H of thyroid disorder (OR=0.495) BMI (OR=1.059), Anti-TPO Ab(OR= 0.021). Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction and diabetes are commonly associated with each other and can impact clinical presentation and laboratory results. It is important to routinely screen for thyroid function in all patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to detect, treat, and prevent complications of both these conditions.

Dolor y edema de miembros inferiores por dermopatía tiroidea: presentación inusual de la enfermedad de Graves en una paciente adolescente / Lower limb pain and edema due to thyroid dermopathy: an unusual presentation of Graves disease in an adolescent patient

La enfermedad de Graves es un proceso inmunomediado en el que autoanticuerpos se dirigen contra el receptor de tirotrofina. Por su acción estimulante sobre la glándula tiroides, se genera crecimiento glandular difuso y aumento de la hormonogénesis. Se caracteriza por el comienzo subagudo de síntomas constitucionales, neuromusculares, cardiovasculares, gastrointestinales y oculares, seguidos en algunos casos de la aparición de manifestaciones cutáneas como la dermopatía tiroidea o mixedema. En pediatría la enfermedad de Graves es infrecuente (aunque es la causa más frecuente de hipertiroidismo), pero la cronología de aparición de los síntomas está bien descrita; es rara la aparición de dermopatía en ausencia de otros síntomas de hipertiroidismo y sin afectación ocular. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 15 años con dermopatía tiroidea por enfermedad de Graves sin oftalmopatía ni otros síntomas de hipertiroidismo clínico asociados.

Graves disease is an immune-mediated process characterized by the presence of autoantibodies to thyrotropin receptors. Its stimulating action on the thyroid gland causes diffuse glandular growth and increased hormone production. Graves disease is characterized by a subacute onset of non-specific, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and eye symptoms, sometimes followed by skin manifestations, such as thyroid dermopathy or myxedema. In pediatrics, Graves disease is rare (although it is the most frequent cause of hyperthyroidism). However, the chronology of symptom onset has been well described; the development of dermopathy in the absence of other symptoms of hyperthyroidism and without eye involvement is rare. Here we describe the case of a 15-year-old female patient with thyroid dermopathy due to Graves disease without eye disease or other associated clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Coexistence of Hyperparathyroidism and Multinodular Goiter with Hashimotos Thyroiditis and Hyperthyroidism � A Rare Case Report

Thyroid disease and hyperparathyroidism (HPT) are among the most common endocrine disorders. Thyroid hormones play an important role in bone and calcium metabolism. The rate of HPT is greater in patients with thyroid disease than in the general medical population. Simultaneous occurrence of hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism in the same patient is a rare combination. The clinical manifestations of hyperthyroidism may overshadow the more subtle and varied symptoms and signs of primary hyperparathyroidism. It poses difficult diagnostic and therapeutic problems. Both diseases, however, may have a profound influence on calcium metabolism. The resulting disturbances in thyrotoxicosis may simulate hyperparathyroidism. Contrariwise, the diagnosis of an associated parathyroid adenoma may be missed, or unnecessarily delayed because hypercalcemia is known to occur in hyperthyroidism. The coexistence of thyroiditis and thyroid nodules with parathyroid disorders is also known. Graves� disease (GD) and primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) are two common endocrine disorders. However the co- occurrence of hyperthyroidism and primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is rare. However, the link between the two disorders remains unclarified. Hypercalcemia in Graves' hyperthyroidism should warrant a thorough investigation for concomitant primary hyperparathyroidism. Concomitant thyroid nodular disease and hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) disease has been also documented. PHPT is also reported in patients with thyroid malignancy. We hereby report a rare case of a patient who presented with coexistence of Hyperparathyroidism and Multinodular Goiter with Hashimotos Thyroiditis and Hyperthyroidism.

Parálisis periódica hipopotasémica tirotóxica: reporte de un caso

La Parálisis Periódica Hipopotasémica Tirotóxica (PPHT) es una complicación rara del hipertiroidismo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 50 años sin historia previa de enfermedades crónicas, que presentó episodios recurrentes de debilidad y cuadriparesia, con normopotasemia y sin síntomas evidentes de hipertiroidismo, lo que retrasó el diagnóstico de parálisis periódica tirotóxica, hasta la presentación franca de hipopotasemia.

Thyrotoxic Hypokalemic Periodic paralysis (PPHT) is a rare complication of hyperthyroidism. The case of a 50-year-old patient with no previous history of chronic diseases is presented, who presented recurrent episodes of weakness and quadriparesis, with normokalemia and without obvious symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which delayed the diagnosis of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis, until the frank presentation of hypokalemia.

Uso de plasmaféresis en el manejo de colestasis intrahepática grave asociada a enfermedad de Graves: a propósito de un caso / Use of plasmapheresis in the treatment of severe intrahepatic cholestasis associated with Graves' disease: a case report

La tirotoxicosis es la manifestación clínica de una liberación excesiva de hormonas tiroideas, asociada o no a una función glandular autónoma; en este primer escenario, se denomina específicamente hipertiroidismo. Las principales etiologías son la enfermedad de Graves (EG), el adenoma tóxico, el bocio multinodular tóxico y el grupo de tiroiditis, predominando sus formas aguda y subaguda. La EG es la forma más común de hipertiroidismo, representando entre el 60 % y el 80 % de los casos, con una mayor incidencia en personas entre 40 y 60 años. Se ha descrito un compromiso hepático entre 45 % y el 90 % de pacientes con hipertiroidismo. Presentamos el caso de un hombre de 47 años con tirotoxicosis secundaria a enfermedad de Graves con compromiso bioquímico hepático manifestado como colestasis intrahepática refractaria al tratamiento médico en el corto plazo, tratado exitosamente con plasmaféresis como terapia puente a tiroidectomía total, proporcionando un análisis de la respuesta a la terapia a través de un cambio en los niveles de tiroxina libre (T4) y bilirrubina total a lo largo de su evolución.

Thyrotoxicosis is the clinical manifestation of excessive thyroid hormone release, whether or not asso-ciated with autonomous glandular function; in this first scenario, it is specifically termed hyperthyroi-dism. The main etiologies are Graves' disease (GD), toxic adenoma, toxic multinodular goiter ant the group of thyroiditis, predominantly acute and subacute forms. GD is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, accounting for 60% to 80% of cases, with a higher incidence among people aged 40 to 60 years. Liver involvement has been reported in 45% to 90% of patients with hyperthyroi-dism. We present the case of a 47-year-old man with thyrotoxicosis secondary to Graves' disease with hepatic biochemical involvement manifested as intrahepatic cholestasis refractory to medical management in the short term, successfully treated with plasmapheresis as bridge therapy to total thyroidectomy, providing an analysis of the response to therapy through a change in free thyroxine (T4) and total bilirubin levels throughout his evolutio

Efficacy of methimazole before the administration of radioactive iodine in the management of Graves' disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The efficacy of anti-thyroid drugs in conjunction with radioactive iodine therapy in the management of Graves' disease is still controversial. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of pretreatment with methimazole before the administration of radioactive iodine for the treatment of Graves' disease. DESIGN AND SETTING: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted at a teaching/tertiary hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria. METHODS: A systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was performed from inception to December, 2021. RESULTS: Five studies with 297 participants were included. There was no difference in the risk of persistent hyperthyroidism when radioactive iodine was used in conjunction with methimazole compared with when radioactive iodine was used alone (relative risk: 1.02, 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.62-1.66; P = 0.95, I2 = 0%). Subgroup analysis based on the duration between discontinuation of methimazole and the administration of radioactive iodine showed a lower risk of persistent hyperthyroidism when methimazole was discontinued within 7 days before radioactive iodine use, although this did not reach statistical significance (risk ratio: 0.85, CI: 0.28-2.58). CONCLUSIONS: The use of methimazole before radioactive iodine administration was not associated with an increased risk of persistent hyperthyroidism. Concerns about medication toxicity and adverse effects should be considered when clinicians make decisions on combination therapies for the treatment of Graves' disease. PROSPERO REGISTRATION: CRD42020150013, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=150013.

Clinical effects of Jiakang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole on hyperthyroidism / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical effects of Jiakang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole on hyperthyroidism. Methods:A total of 100 patients with hyperthyroidism admitted to Shanxian Central Hospital from February 2018 to January 2021 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into a study group and a control group, with 50 patients in each group. The control group was treated with methiimidazole, and the study group was treated with Jiakang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole. Thyroid function, serum levels of osteocalcin (OCN), β-CTx, hypersensitive C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were compared between the two groups. Results:After treatment, serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) in the study group were (3.10 ± 1.36) mU/L, (5.76 ± 1.25) pmol/L, (15.22 ± 1.95) pmol/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (4.88 ± 1.47) mU/L, (7.13 ± 1.32) pmol/L, (19.07 ± 2.02) pmol/L in the control group ( t = 5.27, 4.71, 6.29, all P < 0.05). Serum OCN, β-CTx, hS-CRP, and IL-6 in the study group were (17.36 ± 2.62) μg/L, (0.32 ± 0.04) μg/L, (4.07 ± 0.86) mg/L, and (1.38 ± 0.21) pg/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (26.05 ± 2.88) μg/L, (0.51 ± 0.09) μg/L, (6.23 ± 0.91) mg/L, (1.89 ± 0.28) pg/L in the control group ( t = 12.37, 10.40, 7.39, 8.57, all P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the study group was significantly lower than that in the control group [6.00% (3/50) vs. 12.00% (3/50), χ2 = 14.78, P < 0.05). Conclusion:Jikang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole can effectively reduce the inflammatory responses in patients with hyperthyroidism, inhibit the expression of OCN and β-CTX in the serum, and improve thyroid function. The combined method is scientific and reasonable, and is suitable for clinical application. It has good therapeutic effects on hyperthyroidism and is worthy of clinical promotion.

Clinical efficacy of surgical treatment of refractory hyperthyroidism in 56 patients / 中国基层医药

Methods:The clinical data and follow-up results of 56 patients with refractory hyperthyroidism who underwent laparoscopy or open surgery in Affiliated Nanhua Hospital of University of South China from January 2019 to August 2020 were retrospectively analyzed.Results:Among the 56 patients, there were 6 men and 50 women. Thirty-six (64.3%) patients underwent endoscopic surgery and twenty (35.7%) patients underwent open surgery. The operation time was (132.0 ± 32.0) minutes. Intraoperative blood loss was (32.4 ± 27.8) mL. Postoperative parathyroid hormone level was (27.8 ± 18.3) ng/L. Forty-nine (87.5%) patients showed benign pathology results after surgery. After surgery, 14 (25.0%) patients had hypothyroidism, including 7 (12.5%) patients with hyperthyroidism combined with thyroid cancer. There were no patients with permanent hypothyroidism or recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis. All patients had a good prognosis and satisfactory surgical results.Conclusion:With the update of preoperative preparation methods for hyperthyroidism, the increasing maturity of thyroid surgery technology, and the use of new energy instruments and technologies, surgical treatment is undoubtedly a good treatment method for patients with refractory hyperthyroidism or a suspected malignant tumor.Objevtives:To investigate the indications and clinical efficacy of surgical treatment in patients with refractory hyperthyroidism.

Clinical management of hyperthyroidism complicated with liver failure / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Clinical data from 11 previously diagnosed and treated patients with hyperthyroidism(Graves′ disease) complicated by liver failure were collected. Among them, 4 cases were drug-induced liver injury leading to liver failure, 1 case had a history of schistosomal liver cirrhosis combined with hyperthyroidism, and 6 cases had hyperthyroidism-induced liver injury(HILI) leading to liver failure. During hospitalization, all patients received supportive therapy and symptomatic treatment with β-blockers. Nine patients were treated with glucocorticoids and artificial liver support therapy. Among the 11 patients, 2 died, 8 patients achieved normal thyroid and liver function within 1-12 months after treatment, and 1 patient with liver cirrhosis had stable liver function in the later stage. After improvement in liver function, 7 patients received isotope therapy, 1 patient underwent total thyroidectomy, and 1 patient received medication. These results indicate that the clinical characteristics differ for drug-induced liver injury and HILI-related liver failure. Early initiation of artificial liver support therapy, in addition to β-blockers and glucocorticoids, is important in alleviating thyroid toxicity and liver damage, thus creating an opportunity for subsequent radioactive iodine or surgical treatment.

Efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine combined with 131I in the treatment of Graves hyperthyroidism / 中华核医学与分子影像杂志

Objective:To explore the value of traditional Chinese medicine combined with 131I in the treatment of Graves hyperthyroidism. Methods:From March 2020 to July 2021, 90 patients (39 males, 51 females, age (33.2±7.0) years) with Graves hyperthyroidism who were diagnosed and treated in Changshu No.2 People′s Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were randomly divided into 3 groups ( n=30 in each group), including group A who received treatment of antithyroid drugs (ATD), group B who received treatment of traditional Chinese medicine, and group C who received treatment of 131I combined with traditional Chinese medicine. Thyroid function indicators and inflammatory indicators before treatment and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment were determined, including free triiodothyronine (FT 3), free thyroxine (FT 4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and TSH receptor antibody (TRAb), and C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). One-way analysis of variance and χ2 test were used to analyze data. Results:The levels of FT 3, FT 4, TSH, TRAb, CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α in group A, B and C before treatment and 1, 3, 6 months after treatment were significantly different ( F values: 193.27-906.11, all P<0.05). The total effective rate in group C (100.0%, 30/30) was significantly higher than that in group A (86.7%, 26/30) or group B (83.3%, 25/30; χ2 values: 8.24, 9.83, P values: 0.006, 0.037), while there was no significant difference between group A and group B ( χ2=3.02, P=0.124). The incidence of adverse reactions in group B (46.7%, 14/30) was significantly higher than that in group A (30.0%, 9/30; χ2=6.59, P=0.042). And the incidence of adverse reaction in group C (13.3%, 4/30) was significantly lower than that in group A or group B ( χ2 values: 12.05, 7.20, P values: 0.004, 0.038). Conclusion:The curative effect of 131I combined with traditional Chinese medicine is effective and reliable, suggesting that clinical researches should be carried out together and perfected.

Experience of Treating Hyperthyroidism in Lingnan Region with Modified Huanglian Decoction （黄连汤） / 中医杂志

The climate in the Lingnan area south China is characterized by high temperature and rainy days， and in terms of the eating habits， the local people are more addicted to raw， cold and savory food， all of which make Lingnan people prone to a constitution of upper heat and lower cold， and pathological manifestations of upper heat and lower cold. It is believed that the main pathogenesis of hyperthyroidism in Lingnan area is the upper heat and the lower cold， manifested as spleen yang deficiency and stomach fire excess， or kidney water depletion and heart fire hyperactivity， leading to upper heat and lower cold syndrome caused by disharmony of yin and yang and abnormal ascending and descending. Therefore， spleen cold and stomach heat and disharmony between the heart and the kidney are the main syndromes of hyperthyroidism in Lingnan area. Modified Huanglian Decoction （黄连汤） is commonly used. Additionally， for spleen cold and stomach heat syndrome， Fushen （Sclerotium Poriae Pararadicis） and Baizhu （Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae） can be added to supplement spleen and stomach， thereby treating both the root and the branch. In terms of the disharmony between the heart and the kidney syndrome， Muli （Concha Ostreae） is usually added to subdue yang and supplement yin， together with Wuweizi （Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis） to supplement kidney and calm heart and Shashen （Radix Adenophorae seu Glehniae） to nourish yin and engender liquid， thereby enriching kidney-water and moistening heart-yin. Modification of the formulas is suggested in accordance with the syndromes to achieve a better effect.

Ambient dose equivalent in 99mTcO4- single photon emission computed tomography of the thyroid among patients with hyperthyroidism / 预防医学

Objective@#To investigate the changes of ambient dose equivalent rate in 99mTcO4- single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) of the thyroid among patients with hyperthyroidism, so as to provide insights into radiation protection guidance.@*Methods@#Patients with hyperthyroidism who underwent 99mTcO4- SPECT of the thyroid in a tertiary hospital were enrolled. The ambient dose equivalent rate was measured at different time points following 99mTcO4- infection and at sites with different distances from patients' neck, and the effects of time post-injection, distance from patients' neck, 24-hour thyroidal radioiodine uptake and thyroid weight on the ambient dose equivalent rate were examined using a generalized linear mixed model.@*Results@#Totally 100 patients with hyperthyroidism were enrolled, including 24 men and 76 women and with a mean age of (38.5±14.0) years. The generalized linear mixed model was statistically significant (F=6 610.165, P<0.001), and patients' thyroid weight, time post-injection and distance from patients' neck significantly affected the ambient dose equivalent rate (F=57.967, 15 988.574, 11 200.645, all P<0.001), and the ambient dose equivalent rate positively correlated with patients' thyroid weight and negatively correlated with time post-injection and distance from patients' neck.@*Conclusions@#The ambient dose equivalent rate is affected by patients' thyroid weight, time post-injection and distance from patients' neck among patients with hyperthyroidism undergoing 99mTcO4- SPECT of the thyroid. Delay in contact with patients or keeping distance from patients may be effective for radiation protection.

Research Advances on the Relationship between Overt Hyperthyroidism and Risk of Erectile Dysfunction / 中国医学科学院学报

Studies have demonstrated the detrimental effects of overt hyperthyroidism on sexual functioning.Here,we comprehensively reviewed the studies that focused on the association between overt hyperthyroidism and erectile dysfunction (ED).After the systematic searching for relevant studies,we find that overt hyperthyroidism is significantly associated with the high risk of ED.The prevalence of ED in patients with hyperthyroidism ranges from 3.05% to 85%,while that in general population is 2.16% to 33.8%.A study reported that the erectile functioning of the hyperthyroidism patients was improved (International Index of Erectile Function:22.1±6.9 vs. 25.2±5.1) after the achievement of euthyroidism.The underlying mechanism of the increase in the risk of ED by overt hyperthyroidism might be correlated to the dysfunction of hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis,dysregulation of sex hormones,abnormal expression of thyroid hormone receptors,and psychiatric or psychological disturbances (e.g.,depression,anxiety,and irritability).Since limited clinical trials have been conducted,additional well-designed cohorts with sizable samples are warranted to elucidate the evidence and mechanism of hyperthyroidism predisposing to ED.The present review indicates that overt hyperthyroidism and the risk of ED are associated,which reminds the clinicians should assess the thyroid stimulating hormone in hyperthyroidism patients presenting with ED,especially in those without positive conventional laboratory findings for causing ED.

Treatment of Graves' disease in Brazil: results of a survey among endocrinologists

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of the study was to determine how physicians in Brazil manage Graves' disease in different scenarios including extrathyroidal manifestations. Materials and methods: This study was conducted via a digital survey. The respondents (n = 573) answered multiple-choice questions based on a clinical case and variations of the case regarding laboratory and imaging evaluation, treatment choice, and follow-up. Results: The preferred initial treatment chosen by 95% of the respondents was ATD with a preferred treatment duration of 18-24 months. For 5% of the respondents, RAI was the initial treatment of choice. None of the respondents chose thyroidectomy. When presented with a patient with a desire for pregnancy in the near future, most respondents (69%) opted for ATD as the initial treatment. For a patient with signs of mild to moderate Graves' orbitopathy, ATD remained the initial therapy for 93.9% of the respondents. For patients initially treated with ATD with disease recurrence after ATD interruption, most respondents (60%) chose definitive treatment with RAI. A similar survey published in 2011 by Burch and cols. had results comparable to those of the present survey but with a higher proportion of respondents choosing RAI (45% in the 2011 survey versus 5% in the present survey). Conclusion: Brazilian endocrinologists choose ATD as the initial management of Graves' disease, and most choose RAI as a definitive treatment for a patient with relapse after ATD therapy.

A case of long-term hypothyroidism converted to hyperthyroidism secondary to an autoimmune trigger

Primary hypothyroidism is a common endocrine condition that is encountered. Graves disease and Hashimoto抯 thyroiditis are the most common autoimmune conditions in which conversion of hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism is seen. Chances of conversion of hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism is extremely rare. This case highlights that there should be a high index of suspicion for a possible conversion of hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism. The etiology being an autoimmune switch by an external stimulus in genetically susceptible individuals. Hereby, presenting a case of 53-years female, who is a known case of type II diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome diagnosed with minimal change disease who presented with a hormonal profile showing hyperthyroidism. She had a history of hypothyroidism in the past for 12-years and was treated with levothyroxine and was off treatment for the past 2 years. Further evaluation showed presence of primary Sjogren抯 syndrome which has let to this conversion.