Impact of lead exposure on the thyroid glands of individuals living in high- or low-lead exposure areas.

Ecuador was an endemic area for iodine deficiency; however, due to the population consumption of iodized table salt, the country is nowadays considered iodine sufficient. Despite the population consumption of iodized salt for more than 50 years, the prevalence of hypothyroidism has increased in recent years. A similar increment has been reported for thyroid cancer (TC) becoming the second most common cancer in women and seventh most common cancer in men. High blood lead (BPb) level is a controversial causal factor for impaired thyroid function as well as a debated environmental cause for the increased incidence of TC. To study the association between BPb and thyroid function, anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) antibodies, and the presence of benign and malignant thyroid nodules in Ecuadorian individuals living in high lead exposure (HE) areas compared with those living in low lead exposure (LE) area. We evaluated 197 euthyroid individuals: 70 from Esmeraldas (close to a petrol refinery) and 27 from La Victoria de Pujilí (Pb-glazing ceramics), considered HE areas, and 100 from Quito, considered the LE area. In parallel, we evaluated 187 patients with hypothyroidism (60, 27, and 100 patients from Esmeraldas, Pujilí, and Quito, respectively). BPb was detected using atomic absorption spectroscopy, while thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free-thyroxine (FT4), and autoantibodies were measured using chemiluminescence assays. Thyroid ultrasonography was performed in 300 individuals and fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) was performed only when required based on the guidelines of the American Thyroid Association. The BPb levels (mean ±â€…SD) in the HE areas were increased (8.5 ±â€…7.4) than those in the LE area (3.2 ±â€…2.4, P < .001). No significant associations were observed between BPb and TSH, FT4, or thyroid antibody levels. Enlarged thyroid glands and larger thyroid nodules were primarily observed in HE areas. Just 1 TC was observed. High BPb levels detected in HE areas were not associated with thyroid function or thyroid autoantibodies; however, increased thyroid size and numbers of thyroid nodules were observed, demanding further actions to control lead contamination in these Ecuadorian areas.

Choosing Wisely for Thyroid Conditions: Recommendations of the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism

ABSTRACT Objective: Choosing Wisely (CW) is an initiative that aims to advance the dialogue between physicians and patients about low-value health interventions. Given that thyroid conditions are frequent in clinical practice, we aimed to develop an evidence-based list of thyroid CW recommendations. Materials and methods: The Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM) named a Task Force to conduct the initiative. The Task Force work was based on an electronic Delphi approach. The 10 recommendations that received the highest scores by the Task Force were submitted for voting by all SBEM associates. The 5 recommendations that received the highest scores by SBEM associates are presented herein. Results: The Task Force was composed of 14 thyroidologists from 10 tertiary-care, teaching-based Brazilian institutions. The brainstorming/ideation phase resulted in 69 recommendations. After the removal of duplicates and recommendations that did not adhere to the initiative's scope, 35 remained. Then the Task Force voted to attribute a grade (0 [lowest agreement] to 10 [highest agreement]) for each recommendation. The 10 recommendations that received the highest scores by the Task Force were submitted to all SBEM associates. A total of 683 associates voted electronically, attributing a grade (0 to 10) for each recommendation. The 5 recommendations that received the highest scores by the SBEM associates compose our final list. Conclusion: A set of recommendations to avoid unnecessary medical tests, treatments, or procedures for thyroid conditions are offered with a transparent methodology. This initiative aims to foster productive interactions between physicians and patients, stimulating shared decision-making.

Choosing Wisely for Thyroid Conditions: Recommendations of the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism.

OBJECTIVE: Choosing Wisely (CW) is an initiative that aims to advance the dialogue between physicians and patients about low-value health interventions. Given that thyroid conditions are frequent in clinical practice, we aimed to develop an evidence-based list of thyroid CW recommendations. METHODS: The Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM) named a Task Force to conduct the initiative. The Task Force work was based on an electronic Delphi approach. The 10 recommendations that received the highest scores by the Task Force were submitted for voting by all SBEM associates. The 5 recommendations that received the highest scores by SBEM associates are presented herein. RESULTS: The Task Force was composed of 14 thyroidologists from 10 tertiary-care, teaching-based Brazilian institutions. The brainstorming/ideation phase resulted in 69 recommendations. After the removal of duplicates and recommendations that did not adhere to the initiative's scope, 35 remained. Then the Task Force voted to attribute a grade (0 [lowest agreement] to 10 [highest agreement]) for each recommendation. The 10 recommendations that received the highest scores by the Task Force were submitted to all SBEM associates. A total of 683 associates voted electronically, attributing a grade (0 to 10) for each recommendation. The 5 recommendations that received the highest scores by the SBEM associates compose our final list. CONCLUSION: A set of recommendations to avoid unnecessary medical tests, treatments, or procedures for thyroid conditions are offered with a transparent methodology. This initiative aims to foster productive interactions between physicians and patients, stimulating shared decision-making.

Evaluation of thyroid nodules in the Brazilian Public Health Care System, Supplementary Health System, and Private Health System in the northeastern region of the State of São Paulo.

OBJECTIVE: To obtain data about the evaluation of thyroid nodules (TNs) in the northeastern of the State of São Paulo, compared by health care type, and measure the performance of cytology as a screening test for thyroid cancer (TC). METHODS: We collected data of 597 patients treated in the Brazilian public health care system (SUS), supplementary health (SH) and in private health system (PHS) in 2014. A total of 803 TNs were aspirated, and 125 patients underwent surgery. RESULTS: The distribution of all cytologic results according to the Bethesda system was: I, 135 (16.8%); II, 475 (59.2%); III, 107 (13.3%); IV, 32 (4.0%); V, 20 (2.5%); VI, 34 (4.2%). The time between cytologic analysis and surgery was longer in the SUS than in the SH for TNs in general (p < 0.001) and for TNs with Bethesda V and VI cytology (p = 0.01). The sizes of the TNs and resected malignant TNs was larger in the SUS than in the SH (p = 0.001 and p = 0.02, respectively). The number of PHS surgeries was too small and was not compared. The prevalence of TC was 9.2% and 23.6% of them were treated in the SUS. Cytology showed a 93.6% sensitivity, 95.8% specificity, and 94.7% accuracy when Bethesda III and IV were excluded. CONCLUSION: Cytology was a good screening test for TC categories Bethesda II, V, and VI. The differences between the SUS and SH indicate a need for improved access to consultations and specialized tests in the SUS.

The first five-year evaluation of cystic fibrosis neonatal screening program in São Paulo State, Brazil.

The Hospital of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo is one of the three screening centers in São Paulo State, Brazil, and has included a test for cystic fibrosis (CF) since February 6, 2010, by a court order. We evaluated the first five years of this CF-newborn screening program. The original immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT)/IRT screening protocol was adopted in Brazil. A total of 173,571 newborns were screened, 1,922 (1.1%) of whom showed IRT1 ≥ 70ng/mL. Of these, 1,795 (93.4%) collected IRT2, with elevated results (IRT2 ≥ 70ng/mL) in 102 of them (5.2%). We identified a total of 26 CF cases during this period, including three CF cases that were not detected by the CF-newborn screening. The incidence of the disease among the screened babies was 1:6,675 newborns screened. Median age at the initial evaluation was 42 days, comparable to that of neonates screened with the IRT/DNA protocol. Almost all infants with CF already exhibited some manifestations of the disease during the neonatal period. The mutation most frequently detected in the CF cases was F508del. These findings suggest the early age at the beginning of treatment at our center was due to the effort of the persons involved in the program regarding an effective active search. Considering the false negative results of CF-newborn screening and the early onset of clinical manifestations of the disease in this study, pediatricians should be aware of the diagnosis of CF even in children with negative test.

The first five-year evaluation of cystic fibrosis neonatal screening program in São Paulo State, Brazil / Uma avaliação dos primeiros cinco anos do programa de triagem neonatal da fibrose cística no Estado de São Paulo, Brasil / Una evaluación de los primeros cinco años del programa de cribado neonatal de fibrosis cística en el Estado de São Paulo, Brasil

The Hospital of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo is one of the three screening centers in São Paulo State, Brazil, and has included a test for cystic fibrosis (CF) since February 6, 2010, by a court order. We evaluated the first five years of this CF-newborn screening program. The original immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT)/IRT screening protocol was adopted in Brazil. A total of 173,571 newborns were screened, 1,922 (1.1%) of whom showed IRT1 ≥ 70ng/mL. Of these, 1,795 (93.4%) collected IRT2, with elevated results (IRT2 ≥ 70ng/mL) in 102 of them (5.2%). We identified a total of 26 CF cases during this period, including three CF cases that were not detected by the CF-newborn screening. The incidence of the disease among the screened babies was 1:6,675 newborns screened. Median age at the initial evaluation was 42 days, comparable to that of neonates screened with the IRT/DNA protocol. Almost all infants with CF already exhibited some manifestations of the disease during the neonatal period. The mutation most frequently detected in the CF cases was F508del. These findings suggest the early age at the beginning of treatment at our center was due to the effort of the persons involved in the program regarding an effective active search. Considering the false negative results of CF-newborn screening and the early onset of clinical manifestations of the disease in this study, pediatricians should be aware of the diagnosis of CF even in children with negative test.

O Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo é um dos três centros de triagem da fibrose cística (FC) no estado de São Paulo, tendo incluído esse teste desde 6 de fevereiro de 2010, a partir de uma liminar judicial. O estudo avalia os primeiros cinco anos desse programa de triagem neonatal da FC. O Brasil adota o protocolo de triagem original, com o tripsinogênio imunorreativo (IRT)/IRT. Foram triados um total de 173.571 recém-nascidos, dos quais 1.922 (1,1%) mostraram IRT ≥ 70ng/mL. Destes, 1.795 (93,4%) tiveram amostras coletadas para IRT2, com resultados elevados (IRT2 ≥ 70ng/mL) em 102 deles (5,2%). Identificamos um total de 26 casos de FC durante esse período, inclusive 3 casos de FC que não foram detectados com a triagem neonatal. A incidência da FC foi de 1 caso em cada 6.675 recém-nascidos triados. A idade mediana na avaliação inicial foi 42 dias, comparável à idade de recém-nascidos triados com o protocolo IRT/DNA. Quase todos os lactentes com FC já exibiam algumas manifestações da doença durante o período neonatal. A mutação mais comum nos casos de FC foi a F508del. Os resultados em nosso centro indicam que a idade precoce no início do tratamento foi devido aos esforços do programa na implementação de uma busca ativa eficaz. Considerando os resultados falsos-negativos no programa de triagem neonatal para FC e o início precoce das manifestações clínicas da doença neste estudo, os pediatras devem estar cientes da possibilidade de diagnóstico de FC, mesmo em crianças com teste negativo.

El Hospital das Clínicas de la Facultad de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo Universidad es uno de los tres centros de cribado de fibrosis cística (FC) en el estado de São Paulo, incluyendo este test desde el 6 de febrero de 2010, debido a una medida cautelar judicial. El estudio evalúa los primeros cinco años de este programa de cribado neonatal de FC. Brasil adopta el protocolo de cribado original, con el tripsinógeno inmunorreactivo (TIR)/IRT. Se cribaron un total de 173.571 recién nacidos, de los cuales 1.922 (1,1%) mostraron IRT ≥ 70ng/mL. De estos, se obtuvieron 1.795 (93,4%) muestras recogidas para IRT2, con resultados elevados (IRT2 ≥ 70ng/mL) en 102 de ellos (5,2%). Identificamos un total de 26 casos de FC durante ese período, inclusive 3 casos de FC que no fueron detectados con el cribado neonatal. La incidencia de la FC fue de 1 caso por cada 6.675 recién-nacidos cribados. La edad media en la evaluación inicial fue 42 días, comparable a la edad de recién nacidos cribados con el protocolo IRT/DNA. Casi todos los lactantes con FC ya manifestaban algunos síntomas de la enfermedad durante el período neonatal. La mutación más común en los casos de FC era el F508del. Los resultados en nuestro centro indican que la edad precoz en el inicio del tratamiento se debía a los esfuerzos del programa en la implementación de una búsqueda activa eficaz. Considerando los resultados falsos-negativos en el programa de cribado neonatal para FC, y el inicio precoz de las manifestaciones clínicas de la enfermedad en este estudio, los pediatras deben ser conscientes de la posibilidad de diagnóstico de FC, incluso en niños con test negativo.

Preoperative detection of TERT promoter and BRAFV600E mutations in papillary thyroid carcinoma in high-risk thyroid nodules

ABSTRACT Objectives: This observational study analyzed telomerase reverse transcriptase (pTERT) mutations in 45 fine-needle aspiration (FNA) specimens obtained from thyroid nodules followed by postoperatively confirmation of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) diagnosis, examining their relationship with clinicopathologic aspects and the BRAFV600E mutation. Subjects and methods: Clinical information was collected from patients who presented to Ribeirao Preto University Hospital for surgical consultation regarding a thyroid nodule and who underwent molecular testing between January 2010 to October 2012. Tests included a DNA-based somatic detection of BRAFV600E and pTERT mutations. Results: We found coexistence of pTERTC228T and BRAFV600E mutations in 8.9% (4/45) of thyroid nodules. All nodules positive for pTERT mutations were BRAFV600E positives. There was a significant association between pTERTC228T/BRAFV600E with older age and advanced stage compared with the group negative for either mutation. Conclusions: This series provides evidence that FNA is a reliable method for preoperative diagnosis of high-risk thyroid nodules. pTERTC228T/BRAFV600E mutations could be a marker of poor prognosis. Its use as a personalized molecular medicine tool to individualize treatment decisions and follow-up design needs to be further studied.

Preoperative detection of TERT promoter and BRAFV600E mutations in papillary thyroid carcinoma in high-risk thyroid nodules.

OBJECTIVES: This observational study analyzed telomerase reverse transcriptase (pTERT) mutations in 45 fine-needle aspiration (FNA) specimens obtained from thyroid nodules followed by postoperatively confirmation of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) diagnosis, examining their relationship with clinicopathologic aspects and the BRAFV600E mutation. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Clinical information was collected from patients who presented to Ribeirao Preto University Hospital for surgical consultation regarding a thyroid nodule and who underwent molecular testing between January 2010 to October 2012. Tests included a DNA-based somatic detection of BRAFV600E and pTERT mutations. RESULTS: We found coexistence of pTERTC228T and BRAFV600E mutations in 8.9% (4/45) of thyroid nodules. All nodules positive for pTERT mutations were BRAFV600E positives. There was a significant association between pTERTC228T/BRAFV600E with older age and advanced stage compared with the group negative for either mutation. CONCLUSIONS: This series provides evidence that FNA is a reliable method for preoperative diagnosis of high-risk thyroid nodules. pTERTC228T/BRAFV600E mutations could be a marker of poor prognosis. Its use as a personalized molecular medicine tool to individualize treatment decisions and follow-up design needs to be further studied.

Assessment of thyroid function, ioduria and oxidative stress in women in the first trimester of pregnancy.

INTRODUCTION: adequate iodine intake during pregnancy is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are important for the physiological functions of the mother and appropriate maturation of the central nervous system of the fetus. OBJECTIVE: the objective of the present study was to determine the levels of urinary iodine excretion and thyroid function, antioxidants and oxidative stress markers in pregnant women. METHODS: the study was conducted on 191 pregnant women and 62 non-pregnant women who were evaluated regarding nutritional status. Analyses of urinary iodine, of oxidative stress markers and thyroid function were performed, revealing iodine insufficiency in 81 pregnant women. RESULTS: there was no change in the thyroid stimulating hormone concentration in 89% of the pregnant women. Antithyroperoxidase antibody values were higher in the control group compared to the pregnant women's group (64.5% and 12.6%, respectively) and antithyroglobulin antibody values were also higher in the control group (11.6%). Assessment of oxidative stress revealed higher levels of advanced oxidation protein products, of total antioxidant capacity and of superoxide dismutase antioxidants in pregnant women. Classification of ioduria with respect to oxidative stress markers revealed lower α-tocopherol levels for the pregnant women with iodine insufficiency. CONCLUSION: on this basis, the results suggest that iodine insufficiency did not induce changes in thyroid stimulating hormone levels or antibodies and those pregnant women with adequate urinary iodine excretion had a better profile of the α-tocopherol antioxidant, indicating that iodine may play a significant role in antioxidant capacity during gestation.

Assessment of thyroid function, ioduria and oxidative stress in women in the first trimester of pregnancy / Evaluación de la función tiroidea, yoduria y estrés oxidativo en mujeres en el primer trimestre de embarazo

Introduction: adequate iodine intake during pregnancy is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are important for the physiological functions of the mother and appropriate maturation of the central nervous system of the fetus. Objective: the objective of the present study was to determine the levels of urinary iodine excretion and thyroid function, antioxidants and oxidative stress markers in pregnant women. Methods: the study was conducted on 191 pregnant women and 62 non-pregnant women who were evaluated regarding nutritional status. Analyses of urinary iodine, of oxidative stress markers and thyroid function were performed, revealing iodine insufficiency in 81 pregnant women. Results: there was no change in the thyroid stimulating hormone concentration in 89% of the pregnant women. Antithyroperoxidase antibody values were higher in the control group compared to the pregnant women's group (64.5% and 12.6%, respectively) and antithyroglobulin antibody values were also higher in the control group (11.6%). Assessment of oxidative stress revealed higher levels of advanced oxidation protein products, of total antioxidant capacity and of superoxide dismutase antioxidants in pregnant women. Classification of ioduria with respect to oxidative stress markers revealed lower α-tocopherol levels for the pregnant women with iodine insufficiency. Conclusion: on this basis, the results suggest that iodine insufficiency did not induce changes in thyroid stimulating hormone levels or antibodies and those pregnant women with adequate urinary iodine excretion had a better profile of the α-tocopherol antioxidant, indicating that iodine may play a significant role in antioxidant capacity during gestation

Introducción: la ingesta adecuada de yodo durante el embarazo es esencial para la síntesis de las hormonas tiroideas, que son importantes para las funciones fisiológicas de la madre y la maduración apropiada del sistema nervioso central del feto. Objetivo: el objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar los niveles de excreción de yodo urinario y función tiroidea, antioxidantes y marcadores de estrés oxidativo en mujeres embarazadas. Métodos: el estudio se realizó en 191 mujeres embarazadas y 62 mujeres no embarazadas que fueron evaluadas con respecto al estado nutricional. Se realizaron análisis de yodo urinario, marcadores de estrés oxidativo y función tiroidea, que revelaron insuficiencia de yodo en 81 embarazadas. Resultados: no hubo cambios en la concentración de hormona estimulante tiroidea en el 89% de las mujeres embarazadas. Los valores de anticuerpos antitiroperoxidasa fueron mayores en el grupo control en comparación con el grupo de mujeres embarazadas (64,5% y 12,6%, respectivamente) y los de anticuerpos antitiroglobulina fueron también mayores en el grupo control (11,6%). La evaluación del estrés oxidativo reveló niveles más altos de productos avanzados de proteína de oxidación, de capacidad antioxidante total y de antioxidantes de superóxido dismutasa en mujeres embarazadas. La clasificación de la yoduria con respecto a marcadores de estrés oxidativo reveló menores niveles de α-tocoferol para las mujeres embarazadas con insuficiencia de yodo. Conclusión: sobre esta base, los resultados sugieren que la insuficiencia de yodo no indujo cambios en los niveles de hormona estimulante de la tiroides o anticuerpos y las mujeres embarazadas con excreción urinaria adecuada de yodo tuvieron un mejor perfil del antioxidante α-tocoferol, lo que indica que el yodo puede desempeñar un papel significativo en la capacidad antioxidante durante la gestación

Effects of drying and storage conditions on the stability of TSH in blood spots.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of sample drying and storage temperature on TSH stability in neonatal screening. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Blood samples from 29 adult volunteers as a surrogate for neonatal blood (10 with normal TSH, 9 with overt hypothyroid and 10 with subclinical hypothyroidism) were spotted on filter paper and dried at 22°C or 35°C for 3 hours. The samples were then stored at 22°C, -4°C, or -20°C, and TSH measurements were performed at day 0 (D0), D7, D30, D60, D180, and D360 of storage. RESULTS: The drying temperature did not interfere with TSH measurement on D0. TSH values remained stable up to D30 when stored at 22°C and were stable up to D60 when stored in a refrigerator or freezer. Samples stored at 22°C had a greater decrease in TSH values than samples stored in a refrigerator or a freezer. CONCLUSIONS: Freezer storage is not advantageous compared to storage in the refrigerator. At the end of one year, if confirmation of the initial result is required, a reduction of TSH concentrations should be taken into account.

Effects of drying and storage conditions on the stability of TSH in blood spots

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the influence of sample drying and storage temperature on TSH stability in neonatal screening. Subjects and methods Blood samples from 29 adult volunteers as a surrogate for neonatal blood (10 with normal TSH, 9 with overt hypothyroid and 10 with subclinical hypothyroidism) were spotted on filter paper and dried at 22°C or 35°C for 3 hours. The samples were then stored at 22°C, -4°C, or -20°C, and TSH measurements were performed at day 0 (D0), D7, D30, D60, D180, and D360 of storage. Results The drying temperature did not interfere with TSH measurement on D0. TSH values remained stable up to D30 when stored at 22°C and were stable up to D60 when stored in a refrigerator or freezer. Samples stored at 22°C had a greater decrease in TSH values than samples stored in a refrigerator or a freezer. Conclusions Freezer storage is not advantageous compared to storage in the refrigerator. At the end of one year, if confirmation of the initial result is required, a reduction of TSH concentrations should be taken into account.

Medullary thyroid carcinoma - Adverse events during systemic treatment: risk-benefit ratio

ABSTRACT Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor originating from parafollicular C cells of the thyroid and associated with mutations in the proto-oncogene REarranged during Transfection (RET). The prognosis of MTC depends on clinical stage, with a 95.6% 10-year survival rate among patients with localized disease and 40% among patients with advanced disease. Standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy have no significant impact on the overall survival of these patients and two tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors (TKIs), vandetanib and cabozantinib, have been recently approved for the systemic treatment of locally advanced or metastatic MTC. However, since patients with MTC and residual or recurrent disease may have an indolent course with no need for systemic treatment, and since these drugs are highly toxic, it is extremely important to select the patients who will receive these drugs in a correct manner. It is also essential to carefully monitor patients using TKI regarding possible adverse effects, which should be properly managed when occurring.

Medullary thyroid carcinoma - Adverse events during systemic treatment: risk-benefit ratio.

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor originating from parafollicular C cells of the thyroid and associated with mutations in the proto-oncogene REarranged during Transfection (RET). The prognosis of MTC depends on clinical stage, with a 95.6% 10-year survival rate among patients with localized disease and 40% among patients with advanced disease. Standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy have no significant impact on the overall survival of these patients and two tyrosine kinase receptor inhibitors (TKIs), vandetanib and cabozantinib, have been recently approved for the systemic treatment of locally advanced or metastatic MTC. However, since patients with MTC and residual or recurrent disease may have an indolent course with no need for systemic treatment, and since these drugs are highly toxic, it is extremely important to select the patients who will receive these drugs in a correct manner. It is also essential to carefully monitor patients using TKI regarding possible adverse effects, which should be properly managed when occurring.

Iodine insufficiency in pregnant women from the State of São Paulo.

OBJECTIVE: The intake of adequate amounts of iodine during pregnancy is essential for the neurological development of the fetus. The aim of this study was to assess iodine nutrition status in pregnant women from the state of São Paulo, Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in 191 pregnant and 58 non-pregnant women matched by age. We used the World Health Organization criteria to define sufficient iodine supply (median UIC: 150-249 µg/L among pregnant women, and 100-199 µg/L for non-pregnant women). RESULTS: Median UIC of the pregnant women studied was lower than the recommended value (median = 137.7 µg/L, 95% CI = 132.9 - 155.9), while non-pregnant women had UIC levels within the appropriate range (median = 190 µg/L; 95% IC = 159.3-200.1). UIC was below 150 µg/L in 57% of the pregnant women. CONCLUSIONS: Although a larger sample is needed to consolidate these findings, these results raise concerns about the adequacy of the iodine supply of pregnant women in Brazil, especially considering the new determinations of the Brazilian government, which have recently reduced the concentrations of iodine in table salt to 15-45 mg/kg of salt.

Iodine insufficiency in pregnant women from the State of São Paulo / Insuficiência iódica em gestantes paulistas

Objective : The intake of adequate amounts of iodine during pregnancy is essential for the neurological development of the fetus. The aim of this study was to assess iodine nutrition status in pregnant women from the state of São Paulo, Brazil.Material and methods : We analyzed urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in 191 pregnant and 58 non-pregnant women matched by age. We used the World Health Organization criteria to define sufficient iodine supply (median UIC: 150-249 µg/L among pregnant women, and 100-199 µg/L for non-pregnant women).Results : Median UIC of the pregnant women studied was lower than the recommended value (median = 137.7 µg/L, 95% CI = 132.9 – 155.9), while non-pregnant women had UIC levels within the appropriate range (median = 190 μg/L; 95% IC = 159.3-200.1). UIC was below 150 µg/L in 57% of the pregnant women.Conclusions : Although a larger sample is needed to consolidate these findings, these results raise concerns about the adequacy of the iodine supply of pregnant women in Brazil, especially considering the new determinations of the Brazilian government, which have recently reduced the concentrations of iodine in table salt to 15-45 mg/kg of salt. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2014;58(3):282-7.

Objetivo : O consumo de quantidade adequada de iodo durante a gestação é de fundamental importância para o desenvolvimento neurológico do feto. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o estado nutricional iódico em gestantes do estado de São Paulo, Brasil.Material e métodos : Analisamos a concentração urinária de iodo (UIC) em 191 gestantes e em 58 mulheres não gestantes de mesma faixa etária. Foram utilizados os critérios da OMS para definir suficiência iódica (mediana de UIC: 150-249 µg/L entre as gestantes e 100-199 µg/L para as não gestantes).Resultados : A mediana de UIC das gestantes estudadas esteve abaixo da recomendada (mediana = 137,7 μg/L; 95% IC = 132,9 – 155,9) enquanto a das mulheres não grávidas se mostrou na faixa adequada (mediana = 190 μg/L; 95% IC = 159,3 – 200,1). Entre as gestantes, 57% apresentaram UIC < 150 μg/L.Conclusões : Apesar de uma maior amostragem ser necessária para a confirmação desses achados, os resultados levantam preocupação quanto à suficiência iódica nas mulheres grávidas no Brasil, principalmente diante das novas determinações governamentais brasileiras quanto à redução das concentrações de iodo no sal de cozinha para 15-45 mg/kg. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2014;58(3):282-7.

HLA-G is differentially expressed in thyroid tissues.

BACKGROUND: HLA-G is a nonclassical major histocompatibility complex molecule that has well-recognized immunomodulatory properties. The expression of HLA-G in tumor cells has been considered to be detrimental, permitting tumor spreading and decreased survival. We evaluated the expression of HLA-G in histologically normal thyroid tissue, goiter, and benign and malignant thyroid tumors, and studied the relationship between HLA-G expression and patient clinical variables. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The immunohistochemistry expression of HLA-G was performed on 72 specimens of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), 19 follicular thyroid carcinomas (FTC), 22 follicular adenomas (FA), 22 colloid goiters (CG), and 14 histologically normal thyroid glands (NT). The percentage of HLA-G staining was graded from absent (-) to intense (+++). RESULTS: HLA-G was faintly expressed in areas of hyperplasia in NT and CG. In PTC, FTC, and FA, the percentage of cell staining was significantly higher than in NT and CG (p<0.001 for each comparison). The tumor area with HLA-G expression was greater in FTC (p=0.0059) and PTC (p=0.0330) compared to FA. According to the magnitude of HLA-G staining, PTC tumors >1 cm exhibited increased HLA-G staining when compared to smaller tumors (p=0.03). Aggressive histologic subtypes of PTC have a higher median stained tumor area. No association was found between HLA-G expression and tumoral staging or patient disease-free survival. CONCLUSIONS: The gradual increase of HLA-G expression from hyperplasia to carcinomas, and the association of strong HLA staining with some variables implicated in poor prognosis corroborate the unfavorable role of HLA-G in tumor thyroid cells, inhibiting cytotoxic immune system cells and facilitating tumor evasion and progression.

Congenital hypothyroidism: recommendations of the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is the most common congenital endocrine disorder, with an incidence of 1:2,000 to 1:4,000 live births and it is a leading preventable mental retardation. Neonatal Screening Programs allow early identification of the disease and the adequate treatment of affected children can avoid the complications related to deprivation of the hormone. Most cases of primary congenital hypothyroidism (85%) are due to thyroid dysgenesis (ectopia, hypoplasia or agenesis) while the remaining result from defects in hormone synthesis. Affected children (> 95%) usually have no symptoms suggesting the disease at birth. The most frequent symptoms and signs are prolonged neonatal jaundice, hoarse cry, lethargy, slow movements, constipation, macroglossia, umbilical hernia, large fontanelle, hypotonia and dry skin. Around the world, various strategies are used for the screening of the CH. In Brazil, screening for CH is mandatory by law and usually done by serum TSH in dried blood collected from the heel. The recommended age for performing this test is after 48 hours of life until the 4th day. Diagnostic confirmation is required dosing TSH and free T4 or total T4 in serum.

Hipotireoidismo congênito: recomendações do Departamento de Tireoide da Sociedade Brasileira de Endocrinologia e Metabologia / Congenital hypothyroidism: recommendations of the Thyroid Department of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism

O hipotireoidismo congênito (HC) é o distúrbio endócrino congênito mais frequente, com incidência variando de 1:2.000 a 1:4.000 crianças nascidas vivas e uma das principais causas de retardo mental que pode ser prevenida. Os Programas de Triagem Neonatal para a doença permitem a identificação precoce dos afetados e seu tratamento de modo a evitar as complicações da falta do hormônio. A maioria dos casos de hipotireoidismo congênito é decorrente de disgenesias tireoidianas (85%), entre elas a ectopia, hipoplasia ou agenesia tireoidianas, e os demais resultam de defeitos de síntese hormonal. As crianças afetadas (> 95%) geralmente não apresentam sintomas sugestivos da doença ao nascimento. Os sintomas e sinais mais comuns são: icterícia neonatal prolongada, choro rouco, letargia, movimentos lentos, constipação, macroglossia, hérnia umbilical, fontanelas amplas, hipotonia e pele seca. Várias estratégias são utilizadas para a triagem do HC. No Brasil, esta é obrigatória por lei e geralmente é feita com a dosagem de TSH em sangue seco coletado do calcanhar. A idade recomendada para sua realização é após as 48 horas de vida até o quarto dia. A confirmação diagnóstica é obrigatória com as dosagens de TSH e T4 livre ou T4 total.

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is the most common congenital endocrine disorder, with an incidence of 1:2,000 to 1:4,000 live births and it is a leading preventable mental retardation. Neonatal Screening Programs allow early identification of the disease and the adequate treatment of affected children can avoid the complications related to deprivation of the hormone. Most cases of primary congenital hypothyroidism (85%) are due to thyroid dysgenesis (ectopia, hypoplasia or agenesis) while the remaining result from defects in hormone synthesis. Affected children (> 95%) usually have no symptoms suggesting the disease at birth. The most frequent symptoms and signs are prolonged neonatal jaundice, hoarse cry, lethargy, slow movements, constipation, macroglossia, umbilical hernia, large fontanelle, hypotonia and dry skin. Around the world, various strategies are used for the screening of the CH. In Brazil, screening for CH is mandatory by law and usually done by serum TSH in dried blood collected from the heel. The recommended age for performing this test is after 48 hours of life until the 4th day. Diagnostic confirmation is required dosing TSH and free T4 or total T4 in serum.

Primary hyperparathyroidism as the first clinical manifestation of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A in a 5-year-old child.

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperparathyroidism occurs in only 10%-30% of patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A), rarely as the sole clinical manifestation, and is usually diagnosed after the third decade of life. SUMMARY: A 5-year-old girl was referred for prophylactic thyroidectomy as she carried the p.C634R RET mutation. She was clinically asymptomatic, with a normally palpable thyroid and with the cervical region free of lymphadenopathy or other nodules. Preoperative tests revealed hypercalcemia associated with elevation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) (calcium = 11.2 mg/dL, calcium ion = 1.48 mmol/L, phosphorus = 4.0 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase = 625 U/L, parathyroid hormone (PTH) PTH = 998 pg/mL). A thyroid ultrasound was normal and parathyroid scintigraphy with (99m)Tc-Sestamibi revealed an area of radioconcentration in the upper half of the left thyroid lobe suggesting hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue. She underwent total thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy and developed hypocalcemia. The anatomopathological examination showed no histopathological changes in the thyroid tissue and an adenoma of the parathyroid gland, confirming the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism. CONCLUSIONS: Primary hyperparathyroidism can be a precocious manifestation of MEN2A. This case report highlights that asymptomatic hypercalcemia should be scrutinized in children related to patients with MEN2A who carry a mutation in the RET proto-oncogene, especially mutations in the codon 634, before the currently recommended age of 8 years.