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Peng CCH, Lin YJ, Lee SY, Lin SM, Han C, Loh CH, Huang HK, Pearce EN. MACE and Hyperthyroidism Treated With Medication, Radioactive Iodine, or Thyroidectomy. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240904. [PMID: 38436957 PMCID: PMC10912964 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Excessive thyroid hormones from hyperthyroidism increase cardiovascular risks. Among 3 available treatments for hyperthyroidism, comparisons of long-term outcomes associated with antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine (RAI), and surgery to treat newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism are lacking. Objective To compare risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality among patients with hyperthyroidism treated with ATDs, RAI, or surgery. Design, Setting, and Participants This nationwide cohort study used the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients aged 20 years or older with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism between 2011 and 2020 were enrolled. Treatment groups were determined within 18 months from diagnosis, with follow-up until the development of MACE, death, or the end date of the database, whichever came first. Data were analyzed from October 2022 through December 2023. Exposures The ATD group received ATDs only. RAI and surgery groups could receive ATDs before treatment. Anyone who underwent thyroid surgery without RAI was classified into the surgery group and vice versa. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcomes included MACE (a composite outcome of acute myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality) and all-cause mortality. Results Among 114 062 patients with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism (mean [SD] age, 44.1 [13.6] years; 83 505 female [73.2%]), 107 052 patients (93.9%) received ATDs alone, 1238 patients (1.1%) received RAI, and 5772 patients (5.1%) underwent surgery during a mean (SD) follow-up of 4.4 (2.5) years. Patients undergoing surgery had a significantly lower risk of MACE (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.59-0.98; P = .04), all-cause mortality (HR = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.41-0.68; P < .001), heart failure (HR = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.18-0.59; P < .001), and cardiovascular mortality (HR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26-0.79; P = .005) compared with patients receiving ATDs. Compared with ATDs, RAI was associated with lower MACE risk (HR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.22-0.93; P = .03). Risks for acute myocardial infarction and stroke did not significantly differ between treatment groups. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, surgery was associated with lower long-term risks of MACE and all-cause mortality, while RAI was associated with a lower MACE risk compared with ATDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Chiung-Hui Peng
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
- Diabetes Technology Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jie Lin
- Health Information Center, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Sun Y. Lee
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shu-Man Lin
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Cheng Han
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ching-Hui Loh
- Diabetes Technology Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- Center for Healthy Longevity, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Kai Huang
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Elizabeth N. Pearce
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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Liu X, Wong CKH, Wu T, Chan WWL, Woo YC, Lam CLK, Lang BHH. A comparison of cardiovascular disease, cancer, mortality, and Graves' ophthalmopathy following treatment for hyperthyroidism: A Bayesian network meta-analysis. World J Surg 2024; 48:393-407. [PMID: 38686801 DOI: 10.1002/wjs.12066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This network meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association of anti-thyroid drugs (ATD), radioactive iodine (RAI), and thyroidectomy with subsequent outcomes in patients with newly-diagnosed hyperthyroidism. METHODS The Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for observational studies and randomized controlled trials. Included studies were published on or before 1st May 2022 involving at least two of the treatments among ATD, RAI, and thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism. Pairwise comparisons and Bayesian network meta-analysis were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and their credible interval (CrI) of outcomes, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, overall mortality, and Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). RESULTS A total of 22 cohort studies with 131,297 hyperthyroidism patients were included. Thyroidectomy was associated with lower risks of mortality and GO than ATD (HR = 0.54, 95% CrI: 0.31, 0.96; HR = 0.31, 95% CrI: 0.12, 0.64) and RAI (HR = 0.62, 95% CrI: 0.41, 0.95; HR = 0.18, 95% CrI: 0.07, 0.35). RAI had a higher risk of GO (HR = 1.70, 95% CrI: 1.02, 2.99) than ATD treatment. CONCLUSIONS This Bayesian network meta-analysis indicated that thyroidectomy was associated with lower risks of mortality and GO in newly-diagnosed hyperthyroid patients compared to ATD and RAI. Relative to ATD, RAI therapy increased the risk of GO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carlos K H Wong
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tingting Wu
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wendy W L Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yu Cho Woo
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cindy L K Lam
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Brian H H Lang
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Abstract
Importance Overt hyperthyroidism, defined as suppressed thyrotropin (previously thyroid-stimulating hormone) and high concentration of triiodothyronine (T3) and/or free thyroxine (FT4), affects approximately 0.2% to 1.4% of people worldwide. Subclinical hyperthyroidism, defined as low concentrations of thyrotropin and normal concentrations of T3 and FT4, affects approximately 0.7% to 1.4% of people worldwide. Untreated hyperthyroidism can cause cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, osteoporosis, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. It may lead to unintentional weight loss and is associated with increased mortality. Observations The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves disease, with a global prevalence of 2% in women and 0.5% in men. Other causes of hyperthyroidism and thyrotoxicosis include toxic nodules and the thyrotoxic phase of thyroiditis. Common symptoms of thyrotoxicosis include anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, unintentional weight loss, diarrhea, and heat intolerance. Patients with Graves disease may have a diffusely enlarged thyroid gland, stare, or exophthalmos on examination. Patients with toxic nodules (ie, in which thyroid nodules develop autonomous function) may have symptoms from local compression of structures in the neck by the thyroid gland, such as dysphagia, orthopnea, or voice changes. Etiology can typically be established based on clinical presentation, thyroid function tests, and thyrotropin-receptor antibody status. Thyroid scintigraphy is recommended if thyroid nodules are present or the etiology is unclear. Thyrotoxicosis from thyroiditis may be observed if symptomatic or treated with supportive care. Treatment options for overt hyperthyroidism from autonomous thyroid nodules or Graves disease include antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine ablation, and surgery. Treatment for subclinical hyperthyroidism is recommended for patients at highest risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, such as those older than 65 years or with persistent serum thyrotropin level less than 0.1 mIU/L. Conclusions and Relevance Hyperthyroidism affects 2.5% of adults worldwide and is associated with osteoporosis, heart disease, and increased mortality. First-line treatments are antithyroid drugs, thyroid surgery, and radioactive iodine treatment. Treatment choices should be individualized and patient centered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Y. Lee
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition, and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth N. Pearce
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition, and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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Sjölin G, Watt T, Byström K, Calissendorff J, Cramon PK, Nyström HF, Hallengren B, Holmberg M, Khamisi S, Lantz M, Planck T, Törring O, Wallin G. Long term outcome after toxic nodular goitre. Thyroid Res 2022; 15:20. [PMID: 36316779 PMCID: PMC9624053 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-022-00138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of treating toxic nodular goitre (TNG) is to reverse hyperthyroidism, prevent recurrent disease, relieve symptoms and preserve thyroid function. Treatment efficacies and long-term outcomes of antithyroid drugs (ATD), radioactive iodine (RAI) or surgery vary in the literature. Symptoms often persist for a long time following euthyroidism, and previous studies have demonstrated long-term cognitive and quality of life (QoL) impairments. We report the outcome of treatment, rate of cure (euthyroidism and hypothyroidism), and QoL in an unselected TNG cohort. METHODS TNG patients (n = 638) de novo diagnosed between 2003-2005 were invited to engage in a 6-10-year follow-up study. 237 patients responded to questionnaires about therapies, demographics, comorbidities, and quality of life (ThyPRO). Patients received ATD, RAI, or surgery according clinical guidelines. RESULTS The fraction of patients cured with one RAI treatment was 89%, and 93% in patients treated with surgery. The rate of levothyroxine supplementation for RAI and surgery, at the end of the study period, was 58% respectively 64%. Approximately 5% of the patients needed three or more RAI treatments to be cured. The patients had worse thyroid-related QoL scores, in a broad spectrum, than the general population. CONCLUSION One advantage of treating TNG with RAI over surgery might be lost due to the seemingly similar incidence of hypothyroidism. The need for up to five treatments is rarely described and indicates that the treatment of TNG can be more complex than expected. This circumstance and the long-term QoL impairments are reminders of the chronic nature of hyperthyroidism from TNG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Sjölin
- grid.412367.50000 0001 0123 6208Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden ,grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966Dept. of Surgery, Örebro University and University Hospital, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Torquil Watt
- grid.475435.4Department of Medical Endocrinology Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.4973.90000 0004 0646 7373Internal Medicine Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristina Byström
- grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966Dept. of Medicine, Örebro University and University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Jan Calissendorff
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Dept. of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Karkov Cramon
- grid.475435.4Department of Medical Endocrinology Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.4973.90000 0004 0646 7373Internal Medicine Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helena Filipsson Nyström
- grid.8761.80000 0000 9919 9582Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden ,grid.1649.a000000009445082XDept. of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden ,Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Bengt Hallengren
- grid.411843.b0000 0004 0623 9987Dept. of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden ,grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mats Holmberg
- grid.8761.80000 0000 9919 9582Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Selwan Khamisi
- grid.412354.50000 0001 2351 3333Dept. of Endocrinology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden ,grid.8993.b0000 0004 1936 9457Dept. of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mikael Lantz
- grid.411843.b0000 0004 0623 9987Dept. of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden ,grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tereza Planck
- grid.411843.b0000 0004 0623 9987Dept. of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden ,grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ove Törring
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Institution for Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Göran Wallin
- grid.412367.50000 0001 0123 6208Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden ,grid.15895.300000 0001 0738 8966Dept. of Surgery, Örebro University and University Hospital, 701 85 Örebro, Sweden
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Bartalena L, Piantanida E, Gallo D, Ippolito S, Tanda ML. Management of Graves' hyperthyroidism: present and future. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:153-166. [PMID: 35287535 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2052044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Graves' disease (GD) is an autoimmune disorder due to loss of tolerance to the thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) and ultimately caused by stimulatory TSHR antibodies (TSHR-Ab). GD may be associated with extrathyroidal manifestations, mainly Graves' orbitopathy. Treatment of GD relies on antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine (RAI), thyroidectomy. The major ATD limitation is the high recurrence rate after treatment. The major drawback of RAI and thyroidectomy is the inevitable development of permanent hypothyroidism. AREAS COVERED Original articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses from 1980 to 2021 were searched using the following terms: Graves' disease, management of Graves' disease, antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, thyroidectomy, Graves' orbitopathy, thyroid-eye disease. EXPERT OPINION ATDs are the first-line treatment worldwide, are overall safe and usually given for 18-24 months, long-term treatment may decrease relapses. RAI is safe, although associated with a low risk of GO progression, particularly in smokers. Thyroidectomy requires skilled and high-volume surgeons. Patients play a central role in the choice of treatment within a shared decision-making process. Results from targeted therapies acting on different steps of the autoimmune process, including iscalimab, ATX-GD-59, rituximab, blocking TSHR-Ab, small molecules acting as antagonists of the TSHR, are preliminary or preclinical, but promising in medium-to-long perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Bartalena
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Eliana Piantanida
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Daniela Gallo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Silvia Ippolito
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Tanda
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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Paschou SA, Bletsa E, Stampouloglou PK, Tsigkou V, Valatsou A, Stefanaki K, Kazakou P, Spartalis M, Spartalis E, Oikonomou E, Siasos G. Thyroid disorders and cardiovascular manifestations: an update. Endocrine 2022; 75:672-683. [PMID: 35032315 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-02982-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, representing a major health, social, and economic issue. Thyroid disorders are very common and affect >10% of the adult population in total. The aim of this review is to describe the physiologic role of thyroid hormones on cardiovascular system, to present cardiovascular manifestations in patients with thyroid disorders, emphasizing in molecular mechanisms and biochemical pathways, and to summarize current knowledge of treatment options. Thyroid hormone receptors are located both in myocardium and vessels, and changes in their concentrations affect cardiovascular function. Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, both clinical and subclinical, without the indicated therapeutical management, may contribute to the progression of CVD. According to recent studies, even middle changes in thyroid hormones levels increase cardiovascular mortality from 20% to 80%. In more details, thyroid disorders seem to have serious effects on the cardiovascular system via plenty mechanisms, including dyslipidemia, hypertension, systolic and diastolic myocardial dysfunction, as well endothelial dysfunction. On top of clinical thyroid disorders management, current therapeutics focus on younger patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and elderly patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavroula A Paschou
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Evanthia Bletsa
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiota K Stampouloglou
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Tsigkou
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Angeliki Valatsou
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Hippokration General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Stefanaki
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Kazakou
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Spartalis
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleftherios Spartalis
- 2nd Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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OUP accepted manuscript. Br J Surg 2022; 109:381-389. [DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Liu X, Wong CKH, Chan WWL, Tang EHM, Woo YC, Liu SYW, Lam CLK, Lang BHH. OUP accepted manuscript. BJS Open 2022; 6:6640505. [PMID: 35822337 PMCID: PMC9277064 DOI: 10.1093/bjsopen/zrac079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between good early control of thyroid hormone levels after thyroidectomy for Graves’ disease (GD) and subsequent risks of mortality and morbidities is not well known. The aim of this study was to examine the association between thyroid hormone levels within a short interval after surgery and long-term mortality and morbidity risks from a population-based database. Methods Patients with GD who underwent complete/total thyroidectomy between 2006 and 2018 were selected from the Hong Kong Hospital Authority clinical management system. All patients were classified into three groups (euthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism) according to their thyroid hormone levels at 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to compare the risks of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD), Graves’ ophthalmopathy, and cancer. Results Over a median follow-up of 68 months with 5709 person-years, 949 patients were included for analysis (euthyroidism, n = 540; hypothyroidism, n = 282; and hyperthyroidism, n = 127). The hypothyroidism group had an increased risk of CVD (HR = 4.20, 95 per cent c.i. 2.37 to 7.44, P < 0.001) and the hyperthyroidism group had an increased risk of cancer (HR = 2.14, 95 per cent c.i. 1.55 to 2.97, P < 0.001) compared with the euthyroidism group. Compared with patients obtaining euthyroidism both at 6 months and 12 months, the risk of cancer increased in patients who achieved euthyroidism at 6 months but had an abnormal thyroid status at 12 months (HR = 2.33, 95 per cent c.i. 1.51 to 3.61, P < 0.001) and in those who had abnormal thyroid status at 6 months but achieved euthyroidism at 12 months (HR = 2.52, 95 per cent c.i. 1.60 to 3.97, P < 0.001). Conclusions This study showed a higher risk of CVD in postsurgical hypothyroidism and a higher risk of cancer in hyperthyroidism compared with achieving euthyroidism early after thyroidectomy. Patients who were euthyroid at 6 months and 12 months had better outcomes than those achieving euthyroidism only at 6 months or 12 months. Attaining biochemical euthyroidism early after thyroidectomy should become a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Carlos K H Wong
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Wendy W L Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Eric H M Tang
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Cho Woo
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Shirley Y W Liu
- Division of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Cindy L K Lam
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Brian H H Lang
- Correspondence to: Brian H. H. Lang, Division of Endocrine Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China (e-mail: )
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Shim SR, Kitahara CM, Cha ES, Kim SJ, Bang YJ, Lee WJ. Cancer Risk After Radioactive Iodine Treatment for Hyperthyroidism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2125072. [PMID: 34533571 PMCID: PMC8449277 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.25072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Whether radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy for hyperthyroidism can increase cancer risk remains a controversial issue in medicine and public health. OBJECTIVES To examine site-specific cancer incidence and mortality and to evaluate the radiation dose-response association after RAI treatment for hyperthyroidism. DATA SOURCES The Medline and Cochrane Library electronic databases, using the Medical Subject Headings terms and text keywords, and Embase, using Emtree, were screened up to October 2020. STUDY SELECTION Study inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) inclusion of patients treated for hyperthyroidism with RAI and followed up until cancer diagnosis or death, (2) inclusion of at least 1 comparison group composed of individuals unexposed to RAI treatment (eg, the general population or patients treated for hyperthyroidism with thyroidectomy or antithyroid drugs) or those exposed to different administered doses of RAI, and (3) inclusion of effect size measures (ie, standardized incidence ratio [SIR], standardized mortality ratio [SMR], hazard ratio [HR], or risk ratio [RR]). DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two independent investigators extracted data according to the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. Overall quality assessment followed the recommendations of United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation. The SIR and SMRs and the RRs and HRs were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Cancer incidence and mortality for exposure vs nonexposure to RAI therapy and by level of RAI administered activity. RESULTS Based on data from 12 studies including 479 452 participants, the overall pooled cancer incidence ratio was 1.02 (95% CI, 0.95-1.09) and the pooled cancer mortality ratio was 0.98 (95% CI, 0.92-1.04) for exposure vs nonexposure to RAI therapy. No statistically significant elevations in risk were observed for specific cancers except thyroid cancer incidence (SIR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.19-2.92) and mortality (SMR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.37-3.59). However, inability to control for confounding by indication and other sources of bias were important limitations of studies comparing RAI exposure with nonexposure. In dose-response analysis, RAI was significantly associated with breast and solid cancer mortality (breast cancer mortality, per 370 MBq: 1.35; P = .03; solid cancer mortality, per 370 MBq: 1.14; P = .01), based on 2 studies. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this meta-analysis, the overall pooled cancer risk after exposure to RAI therapy vs nonexposure was not significant, whereas a linear dose-response association between RAI therapy and solid cancer mortality was observed. These findings suggest that radiation-induced cancer risks following RAI therapy for hyperthyroidism are small and, in observational studies, may only be detectable at higher levels of administered dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Ryul Shim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Cari M. Kitahara
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Eun Shil Cha
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Jang Kim
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Pusan National University College of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- BioMedical Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Jin Bang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Jin Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Outcomes of Graves' Disease Patients Following Antithyroid Drugs, Radioactive Iodine, or Thyroidectomy as the First-line Treatment. Ann Surg 2021; 273:1197-1206. [PMID: 33914484 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000004828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long-term outcomes of first-line choice among ATD, RAI, and thyroidectomy for GD patients remain unclear. OBJECTIVE To compare the long-term morbidity, mortality, relapse, and costs of GD patients receiving first-line treatment. METHODS A population-based retrospective cohort of GD patients initiating first-line treatment with ATD, RAI, or thyroidectomy as a first-line primary treatment between 2006 and 2018 from Hong Kong Hospital Authority was analyzed. Risks of all-cause mortality, CVD, AF, psychological disease, diabetes, and hypertension were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression models. The 10-year healthcare costs, change of comorbidities, and risk of relapse were compared across treatments. RESULTS Over a median follow-up of 90 months with 47,470 person-years, 6385 patients (ATD, 74.93%; RAI, 19.95%; thyroidectomy, 5.12%) who received first-line treatment for GD were analyzed. Compared with ATD group, patients who had undergone surgery had significantly lower risks of all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.363, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.332-0.396], CVD (HR = 0.216, 95% CI = 0.195-0.239), AF (HR = 0.103, 95% CI = 0.085-0.124), psychological disease (HR = 0.279, 95% CI = 0.258-0.301), diabetes (HR = 0.341, 95% CI = 0.305-0.381), and hypertension (HR = 0.673, 95% CI = 0.632-0.718). Meanwhile, RAI group was also associated with decreased risks of all-cause mortality (HR = 0.931, 95% CI = 0.882-0.982), CVD (HR = 0.784, 95% CI = 0.742-0.828), AF (HR = 0.622, 95% CI = 0.578-0.67), and psychological disease (HR = 0.895, 95% CI = 0.855-0.937). The relapse rate was 2.41% in surgery, 75.60% in ATD, and 19.53% in RAI group. The surgery group was observed with a significant lower Charlson Comorbidity Index score than the other 2 groups at the tenth-year follow-up. The mean 10-year cumulative healthcare costs in ATD, RAI, and surgery group was US$23915, US$24260, and US$20202, respectively. CONCLUSIONS GD patients who received surgery as an initial treatment appeared to have lower chances of all-cause mortality, CVD, AF, psychological disease, diabetes, and hypertension in the long-term when compared to those treated with ATD or RAI. The surgery group had the lowest relapse and direct healthcare costs among the 3 treatment modalities. This long-term cohort study suggested surgery may have a larger role to play as an initial treatment for GD patients.
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Yan D, Chen C, Yan H, Liu T, Yan H, Yuan J. Mortality Risk After Radioiodine Therapy for Hyperthyroidism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Endocr Pract 2020; 27:362-369. [PMID: 33616040 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2020.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Radioiodine has been increasingly used to treat hyperthyroidism for many years. Although widely regarded as an effective therapy, radioiodine treatment for hyperthyroidism has been suspected to be associated with the risk of mortality. This study aimed to quantify the mortality outcomes in patients who were treated for hyperthyroidism with radioiodine. METHODS Systematic search and meta-analysis were performed to determine the risk of mortality in patients treated with radioiodine for hyperthyroidism. Relevant studies were searched through August 2020 and selected in accordance with the inclusion criteria. RESULTS A total of 13 studies were identified. The summary odds ratios (ORs) showed an increased risk of all-cause mortality in patients who were treated with radioiodine for hyperthyroidism (OR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.07-1.35). The risk of death attributed to all forms of circulatory, respiratory, and endocrine and metabolic diseases was significantly increased, with summary ORs of 1.23 (95% CI, 1.12-1.35), 1.43 (95% CI, 1.17-1.75), and 2.38 (95% CI, 1.85-3.06), respectively. The summary ORs revealed no significant association between radioiodine treatment for hyperthyroidism and the risk of cancer mortality (OR = 1.03; 95% CI, 0.98-1.09). Radioiodine treatment for hyperthyroidism was not associated with the risk of mortality from breast, respiratory system, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary cancers. CONCLUSION Radioiodine treatment for hyperthyroidism is associated with the risk of all-cause mortality but not cancer mortality. Future research needs to address the causes of hyperthyroidism, effects of radioiodine therapy, and potential effects of confounding to identify causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Yan
- Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang-Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, P.R. China
| | - Chuang Chen
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang-Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, P.R. China
| | - Honglin Yan
- Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang-Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, P.R. China
| | - Tian Liu
- Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang-Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, P.R. China
| | - Hong Yan
- Department of Health Toxicology, MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong-Road, Wuhan, 430030, P.R. China
| | - Jingping Yuan
- Department of Pathology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang-Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, 430060, P.R. China.
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12
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Cardiovascular Outcomes of Thyroidectomy or Radioactive Iodine Ablation for Graves' Disease. J Surg Res 2020; 256:486-491. [PMID: 32798996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2020.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment options for Graves' disease (GD) include medical management with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine (RAI) ablation, or total thyroidectomy (TT). Definitive treatment with RAI ablation may be associated with worse cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than TT. We sought to determine the rate of cardiovascular morbidity before and after definitive treatment for GD. METHODS This study is a retrospective single-institution study of sequential adult patients with GD from 2012 to 2018 treated with RAI ablation or TT. Patients with prior thyroid surgery or RAI ablation with subsequent thyroidectomy were excluded. Demographic and clinical variables were collected from diagnosis of GD to last follow-up. Data analysis was performed with descriptive statistics, univariate analysis with Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables. RESULTS One-hundred and eighty-four patients underwent definitive treatment for GD during the study period, of which 164 met inclusion criteria. One hundred and ten patients (67%) in the study group had TT and 54 (33%) had RAI ablation with a mean dose of 18.4 mCi (standard deviation 6.1). There were no differences in clinical or demographic factors in patients undergoing RAI ablation versus TT for definitive treatment including age, sex, thyroid-stimulating hormone level, free thyroxine level, or thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin level at time of diagnosis, nor was there any difference in pretreatment cardiovascular comorbidity. Patients with TT had higher rates of resolution of arrhythmia after treatment than those undergoing RAI ablation, P = 0.02. There were no differences in treatment-related complications between the groups. CONCLUSIONS For patients undergoing definitive treatment for GD, TT is associated with improved rate of resolution of cardiac arrhythmia compared with RAI ablation.
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Abstract
Context: There are three therapeutic modalities for the management of Graves’ disease (GD), including thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine (RAI), and antithyroid drugs (ATDs). We aimed to briefly review the history of these treatment strategies and their advantages and disadvantages. Evidence Acquisition: We searched PubMed for English language articles using pertinent search terms. Results: Each treatment modality for GD is accompanied by several advantages and disadvantages. Nowadays, ATDs are the most commonly prescribed therapy for GD worldwide. The lack of well-designed, large RCTs comparing three different treatments for hyperthyroidism concerning various short-term and long-term outcomes has led to remarkable uncertainty in the preference of each of these treatments, as is evident in relevant guidelines from different societies. Recently, the efficacy and safety of long-term use of ATDs have been documented. Conclusions: Pros and cons of each therapeutic modality for Graves’ hyperthyroidism should be taken into account during the physician-patient discussion to select the primary treatment. Considering recent data about the long-term efficacy and safety of ATDs, it seems that the appropriate selection of Graves’ patients for long-term ATD therapy can be a new avenue in the treatment and even cure of GD.
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Francis N, Francis T, Lazarus JH, Okosieme OE. Current controversies in the management of Graves' hyperthyroidism. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2020; 15:159-169. [PMID: 32315207 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2020.1754192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The management of Graves' disease centers on the use of effective and well-established therapies, namely thionamide antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, and thyroidectomy. Optimal treatment strategies are however controversial and vary significantly across centers.Areas covered: This review addresses specific controversies in Graves' disease management including the choice of primary therapy, the approach to women planning pregnancy, and optimal strategies for antithyroid drug and radioiodine therapy.Expert opinion: Important considerations in choosing therapy include treatment efficacy, adverse effects, patient convenience, and resource settings. Recent data suggest that early and effective control of hyperthyroidism is key to improving cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Studies addressing cancer risk in radioiodine-treated patients face methodological challenges and require clarification in appropriately designed studies. Remission rates with antithyroid drugs are comparable when thionamides are used alone (titration-regimen) or in combination with levothyroxine (block and replace) and can be optimized by extending treatment for at least 12-18 months. Fixed and calculated radioiodine activity regimens are both effective but entail a trade-off between convenience and precision in the administered activity. Optimal preconception strategies are still evolving but ablative treatment in advance of pregnancy offers the most pragmatic means of reducing adverse effects of hyperthyroidism in subsequent pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niroshan Francis
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
| | - Thanuya Francis
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
| | - John H Lazarus
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Onyebuchi E Okosieme
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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15
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Okosieme OE, Taylor PN, Dayan CM. Should radioiodine now be first line treatment for Graves' disease? Thyroid Res 2020; 13:3. [PMID: 32165924 PMCID: PMC7061474 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-020-00077-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Radioiodine represents a cost-effective treatment option for Graves’ disease. In the UK, it is traditionally reserved for patients who relapse after initial thionamide therapy. In a change from current practice, the new guidelines of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that radioiodine should now be first line therapy for Graves’ disease. However, the safety of radioiodine with respect to long-term mortality risk has been the subject of recent debate. This analysis examines evidence from treatment related mortality studies in hyperthyroidism and discusses their implications for future Graves’ disease treatment strategies. Main body Some studies have suggested an excess mortality in radioiodine treated cohorts compared to the background population. In particular, a recent observational study reported a modest increase in cancer-related mortality in hyperthyroid patients exposed to radioiodine. The interpretation of these studies is however constrained by study designs that lacked thionamide control groups or information on thyroid status and so could not distinguish the effect of treatment from disease. Two studies have shown survival advantages of radioiodine over thionamide therapy, but these benefits were only seen when radioiodine was successful in controlling hyperthyroidism. Notably, increased mortality was associated with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism irrespective of therapy modality. Conclusions Early radioiodine treatment will potentially reduce mortality and should be offered to patients with severe disease. However, thionamides are still suitable for patients with milder disease, contraindications to radioiodine, or individuals who choose to avoid permanent hypothyroidism. Ultimately, a patient individualised approach that prioritises early and sustained control of hyperthyroidism will improve long-term outcomes regardless of the therapy modality used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyebuchi E Okosieme
- 1Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,2Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Gurnos Estate, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 9DT UK
| | - Peter N Taylor
- 1Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Colin M Dayan
- 1Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Sjölin G, Holmberg M, Törring O, Byström K, Khamisi S, de Laval D, Abraham-Nordling M, Calissendorff J, Lantz M, Hallengren B, Filipsson Nyström H, Wallin G. The Long-Term Outcome of Treatment for Graves' Hyperthyroidism. Thyroid 2019; 29:1545-1557. [PMID: 31482765 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: The treatment efficacy of antithyroid drug (ATD) therapy, radioactive iodine (131I), or surgery for Graves' hyperthyroidism is well described. However, there are a few reports on the long-term total outcome of each treatment modality regarding how many require levothyroxine supplementation, the need of thyroid ablation, or the individual patient's estimation of their recovery. Methods: We conducted a pragmatic trial to determine the effectiveness and adverse outcome in a patient cohort newly diagnosed with Graves' hyperthyroidism between 2003 and 2005 (n = 2430). The patients were invited to participate in a longitudinal study spanning 8 ± 0.9 years (mean ± standard deviation) after diagnosis. We were able to follow 1186 (60%) patients who had been treated with ATD, 131I, or surgery. We determined the mode of treatment, remission rate, recurrence, quality of life, demographic data, comorbidities, and lifestyle factors through questionnaires and a review of the individual's medical history records. Results: At follow-up, the remission rate after first-line treatment choice with ATD was 45.3% (351/774), with 131I therapy 81.5% (324/264), and with surgery 96.3% (52/54). Among those patients who had a second course of ATD, 29.4% achieved remission (vs. the 45.3% after the first course of ATD). The total number of patients who had undergone ablative treatment was 64.3% (763/1186), of whom 23% (278/1186) had received surgery, 43% (505/1186) had received 131I therapy, including 2% (20/1186) who had received both surgery and 131I. Patients who received ATD as first-line treatment and possibly additional ATD had 49.7% risk (385/774) of having undergone ablative treatment at follow-up. Levothyroxine replacement was needed in 23% (81/351) of the initially ATD treated in remission, in 77.3% (204/264) of the 131I treated, and in 96.2% (50/52) of the surgically treated patients. Taken together after 6-10 years, and all treatment considered, normal thyroid hormone status without thyroxine supplementation was only achieved in 35.7% (423/1186) of all patients and in only 40.3% of those initially treated with ATD. The proportion of patients that did not feel fully recovered at follow-up was 25.3%. Conclusion: A patient selecting ATD therapy as the initial approach in the treatment of Graves' hyperthyroidism should be informed that they have only a 50.3% chance of ultimately avoiding ablative treatment and only a 40% chance of eventually being euthyroid without thyroid medication. Surprisingly, 1 in 4 patients did not feel fully recovered after 6-10 years. The treatment for Graves' hyperthyroidism, thus, has unexpected long-term consequences for many patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Sjölin
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mats Holmberg
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ove Törring
- Institution for Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet and Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Byström
- Department of Medicine, Örebro University and University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Selwan Khamisi
- Department of Endocrinology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dorota de Laval
- Department of Medicine, Blekinge Hospital, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | | | - Jan Calissendorff
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Lantz
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Bengt Hallengren
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Helena Filipsson Nyström
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Göran Wallin
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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17
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Okosieme OE, Taylor PN, Evans C, Thayer D, Chai A, Khan I, Draman MS, Tennant B, Geen J, Sayers A, French R, Lazarus JH, Premawardhana LD, Dayan CM. Primary therapy of Graves' disease and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality: a linked-record cohort study. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2019; 7:278-287. [PMID: 30827829 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(19)30059-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Graves' disease is routinely treated with antithyroid drugs, radioiodine, or surgery, but whether the choice of initial therapy influences long-term outcomes is uncertain. We evaluated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality according to the method and effectiveness of primary therapy in Graves' disease. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we identified patients with hyperthyroidism, diagnosed between Jan 1, 1998, and Dec 31, 2013, from a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-receptor antibody (TRAb) test register in south Wales, UK, and imported their clinical data into the All-Wales Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank (Swansea University, Swansea, UK). Patients with Graves' disease, defined by positive TRAb tests, were selected for the study, and their clinical data were linked with outcomes in SAIL. We had no exclusion criteria. Patients were matched by age and sex to a control population (1:4) in the SAIL database. Patients were grouped by treatment within 1 year of diagnosis into the antithyroid drug group, radioiodine with resolved hyperthyroidism group (radioiodine group A), or radioiodine with unresolved hyperthyroidism group (radioiodine group B). We used landmark Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models to analyse the association of treatment with the primary outcome of all-cause mortality and the secondary outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, heart failure, ischaemic stroke, or death) with the landmark set at 1 year after diagnosis. We analysed the association between outcomes and concentration of TSH using Cox regression and outcomes and free thyroxine (FT4) concentration using restricted cubic-spline regression models. FINDINGS We extracted patient-level data on 4189 patients (3414 [81·5%] females and 775 [18·5%] males) with Graves' disease and 16 756 controls (13 656 [81·5%] females and 3100 [18·5%] males). In landmark analyses, 3587 patients were in the antithyroid drug group, 250 were in radioiodine group A, 182 were in radioiodine group B. Patients had increased all-cause mortality compared with controls (hazard ratio [HR] 1·22, 95% CI 1·05-1·42). Compared with patients in the antithyroid drug group, mortality was lower among those in radioiodine group A (HR 0·50, 95% CI 0·29-0·85), but not for those in radioiodine group B (HR 1·51, 95% CI 0·96-2·37). Persistently low TSH concentrations at 1 year after diagnosis were associated with increased mortality independent of treatment method (HR 1·55, 95% CI 1·08-2·24). Spline regressions showed a positive non-linear relationship between FT4 concentrations at 1 year and all-cause mortality. INTERPRETATION Regardless of the method of treatment, early and effective control of hyperthyroidism among patients with Graves' disease is associated with improved survival compared with less effective control. Rapid and sustained control of hyperthyroidism should be prioritised in the management of Graves' disease and early definitive treatment with radioiodine should be offered to patients who are unlikely to achieve remission with antithyroid drugs alone. FUNDING National Institute for Social Care and Health Research, Wales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyebuchi E Okosieme
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK; Diabetes Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK.
| | - Peter N Taylor
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Carol Evans
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Immunology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dan Thayer
- Secure Anonymised Information Linkage Databank, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Aaron Chai
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Ishrat Khan
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mohd S Draman
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Brian Tennant
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK
| | - John Geen
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, UK; Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, UK
| | - Adrian Sayers
- Department of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Robert French
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - John H Lazarus
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lakdasa D Premawardhana
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK; Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr Hospital, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Ystrad Mynach, UK
| | - Colin M Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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