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Hedberg F, Cramon PK, Bränström R, Falhammar H, Calissendorff J. Assessing the impact of short-term Lugol's solution on toxic nodular thyroid disease: a pre-post-intervention study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1420154. [PMID: 39119004 PMCID: PMC11306062 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1420154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Preoperative iodine therapy in toxic nodular goiter (TNG) is discouraged as iodine may cause aggravation of hyperthyroidism. We aimed to examine if a short course of iodine treatment is safe to administer in TNG. Methods Patients with TNG (n=20) and subclinical to mild hyperthyroidism (free (f)T4 <30 pmol/L) without complicating illnesses were included in this pre-post-intervention study at Karolinska University Hospital. All participants received Lugol's solution 5%, three oral drops thrice daily for 10 days. Heart rate, TSH, fT4, fT3 concentrations were collected before (day 0) and after treatment (day 10). Thyroid hormone concentrations were also measured at two time points during treatment to discover aggravations of hyperthyroidism. ThyPRO39se, a quality-of-life questionnaire, was filled out day 0 and day 10. Differences in heart rate, thyroid hormone concentrations, and quality-of-life before and after treatment were compared. Adverse reactions were reported. Results The median age was 63.5 years. Female to male ratio 19:1. FT4 and fT3 concentrations decreased (both p<0.001), and TSH concentration increased (p<0.001) after 10 days of treatment. There was no difference in heart rate. No aggravations of thyrotoxicosis were noticed in any of the participants. ThyPRO39se scores improved on three scales, including hyperthyroid symptoms, while the remaining scale scores were unchanged. Mild and transient symptoms related to or possibly related to treatment were observed in six participants. Conclusion A short course of Lugol's solution improved thyroid hormone concentrations, reduced patient-reported hyperthyroid symptoms and was safe in TNG. Lugol's solution might be an option for preoperative treatment in TNG. Clinical trial registration https://www.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04856488.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredric Hedberg
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Karkov Cramon
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital – Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital – Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert Bränström
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Breast, Endocrine Tumors and Sarcoma, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Calissendorff
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Wolstenhulme F, Bibby I, Cole M, Grixti L, McGregor N, Bradley P, Maier RH, Walker J, Pearce SH, Wason J. Graves-PCD: protocol for a randomised, dose-finding, adaptive trial of the plasma cell-depleting agent daratumumab in severe Graves' disease. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e079158. [PMID: 38866568 PMCID: PMC11177693 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe Graves' disease is a life-changing condition with poor outcomes from currently available treatments. It is caused by directly pathogenic thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor-stimulating antibodies (TRAb), which are secreted from plasma cells. The human anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody daratumumab was developed to target plasma cells which express high levels of CD38, and is currently licensed for treatment of the plasma cell malignancy, myeloma. However, it can also deplete benign plasma cells with the potential to reduce TRAb and alter the natural history of severe Graves' disease. This study aims to establish proof of concept that daratumumab has efficacy in patients with severe Graves' disease and will provide important data to inform a choice of dosing regimen for subsequent trials. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Graves-PCD trial aims to determine if daratumumab modulates the humoral immune response in patients with severe Graves' disease, and if so, over what time period, and to find an optimal dose. It is a single-blinded, randomised, dose-finding, adaptive trial using four different doses of daratumumab or placebo in 30 adult patients. Part 1 of the trial is dose-finding and, following an interim analysis, in part 2, the remaining patients will be randomised between the chosen dose(s) from the interim analysis or placebo. The primary outcome is the percentage change in serum TRAb from baseline to 12 weeks. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial received a favourable ethical opinion from London-Hampstead Research Ethics Committee (reference 21/LO/0449). The results of this trial will be disseminated at international meetings, in the peer-reviewed literature and through partner patient group newsletters and presentations at patient education events. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN81162400.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faye Wolstenhulme
- Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Irena Bibby
- Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Michael Cole
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lydia Grixti
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Biomedicine West, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Naomi McGregor
- Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Penny Bradley
- Pharmacy Clinical Trials, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rebecca H Maier
- Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jenn Walker
- Newcastle Clinical Trials Unit, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Simon H Pearce
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Biomedicine West, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - James Wason
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Larisch R, Midgley JEM, Dietrich JW, Hoermann R. Effect of Radioiodine Treatment on Quality of Life in Patients with Subclinical Hyperthyroidism: A Prospective Controlled Study. Nuklearmedizin 2024; 63:176-187. [PMID: 38262472 DOI: 10.1055/a-2240-8087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Radioiodine treatment (RIT) has a high success rate in both the treatment of hyperthyroidism and improving the quality of life (QoL) of symptomatic patients. In asymptomatic patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism thyroid related QoL outcomes are less well known. METHODS Study aim was to evaluate thyroid-related QoL in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism mostly due to toxic nodular goitre undergoing RIT, compared to a control group of euthyroid subjects. Study design was monocentric, prospective, controlled. Fifty control subjects were enrolled and 51 RIT patients. Most subjects were examined at least twice at an interval of 6 months, with visits immediately before and 6 months after treatment in the RIT group. QoL was estimated with the ThyPRO questionnaire, using its composite scale as primary outcome. Treatment effect was the mean adjusted difference (MAD) between groups over time, using repeated? measures mixed? effects models. RESULTS TSH concentrations were lower in the RIT group prior to treatment and recovered thereafter slightly above the level of the control group. Correspondingly, QoL improved significantly after 6 months from a worse level in the RIT group, compared to controls (MAD -10.3 [95% CI -14.9, -5.7], p<0.001). QoL improvements were strong for general items, but less pronounced for the hyperthyroid domain. Compared to controls, thyroid volume, thyroid functional capacity (SPINA-GT) and deiodinase activity (SPINA-GD) were significantly reduced in the RIT group. CONCLUSION Patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism improve both biochemically and in their QoL after RIT, compared to controls. QoL assessment should have a wider role in clinical practice to complement biochemical tests and help with treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Larisch
- Clinic of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
| | - John E M Midgley
- North Lakes Clinical, Ilkley LS29 8PT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Johannes W Dietrich
- Medical Hospital I, Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Bochum, Germany
| | - Rudolf Hoermann
- Clinic of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Lüdenscheid, Germany
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Wang S, Yang C, Zeng W, Tian H, Du S, Zhao J. Acupuncture treatment for Hashimoto's thyroiditis: An exploratory randomized controlled trial. Integr Med Res 2024; 13:101023. [PMID: 38420579 PMCID: PMC10899034 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2024.101023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) has a high incidence rate and unresolved clinical symptoms. Although Hand Yangming Meridian Penetrating Acupuncture has been used to treat thyroid diseases in China, there is no randomized controlled trial (RCT) on HT. Methods This exploratory RCT aims to preliminarily evaluate the efficacy, safety, and feasibility of Hand Yangming Meridian Penetrating Acupuncture in the treatment of HT. Included subjects were randomly assigned to the acupuncture group and the waiting treatment group at a ratio of 1:1. Subjects in the acupuncture group received 16 weeks of acupuncture treatment, followed by a 16-week follow-up observation phase. Subjects in the waiting group received thyroxine supplementation for 16 weeks, followed by 16 weeks of compensation treatment. Serum thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOab) and thyroglobulin antibody (TGab) levels were the main indicators, and Thyroid-Related Patient-Reported Outcome short form (ThyPRO-39), MOS Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores were also recorded. Results In total, 58 subjects were included. After 16 weeks of treatment, there was no statistical difference in the changes in TPOab levels between the two groups, but the TGab level in the acupuncture group was significantly lower than in the waiting group (difference: -141.97 [95 % CI: -222.4 to -61.5], P = 0.011). Moreover, the total ThyPRO-39 and SF-36 scores were statistically different between the two groups (PThyPRO-39 < 0.001, PSF-36 = 0.005). There was no statistical difference in HADS between the two groups. Conclusions Hand Yangming Meridian Penetrating Acupuncture may be safe and feasible for HT hypothyroidism to improve symptoms and reduce TGab levels. Trial registration number This trial was registered at Acupuncture-Moxibustion Clinical Trial Registry: AMCTR-IOR-19000308 (ChiCTR1900026830, https://www.chictr.org.cn/searchprojEN.html).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanze Wang
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Weimei Zeng
- Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hongfang Tian
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shihao Du
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chinese Academy of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiping Zhao
- Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Li Y, Yang T, Ju L, Feng Y, Chen Z, Xiang X, Zhu T, Pang H, Wang Z. Quality of life and decision regret in patients with late-hypothyroidism after radioiodine treatment for Graves' disease. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2024; 100:87-95. [PMID: 37964632 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with Graves' disease often engage in shared decision-making to select an individualised treatment regimen from multiple options. Radioactive iodine (RAI) is one of the treatment choices for their condition, aims to improve quality of life and well-being. Likewise, dissatisfaction with treatment outcomes can result in decision regret. We employed validated questionnaires to assess the prospective quality of life, decision regret and relative factors involved in decision-making of patients with late hypothyroidism after RAI therapy. METHODS A questionnaire survey was conducted among patients in hypothyroidism status for more than 1 year after RAI therapy. Disease-specific and generic QoL were assessed using the short form of thyroid-related patient-reported outcome (ThyPRO-39) questionnaire. Patient satisfaction regarding their decision to undergo RAI was assessed using the Decision Regret Scale (DRS) and patients were asked about the importance of relative factors in decision-making. RESULTS Of 254 patients who responded to the survey, the mean age of patients was 45.3 years (range: 18-78 years) and the median time from RAI therapy to survey was 4 years (range: 1-30 years). Patients' median and mean DRS score were 34.4 and 38.8 (range: 0-100), respectively. A total of 100 (39.4%) patients express absent-to-mild regret (score: 0-25), 154 (60.6%) patients express moderate-to-severe regret (score: >25). The mean score of the absent-to-mild regret group were significantly higher than those of the moderate-to-severe regret group on most ThyPRO-39 scales. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between DRS score and most ThyPRO-39 scale score. There was a significant positive association between higher DRS score and longer time intervals after RAI treatment, a brief duration of hyperthyroidism, and the significance of long-time outpatient follow-up. More decision regret was negatively associated Iodine-free diet, ineffectiveness of ATD, fear of surgery. CONCLUSION Impairment of quality of life was positively correlated with decision regret in patients with late-hypothyroidism after radioiodine therapy. Patients with insufficient information support before decision-making are more likely to have higher decision regret after treatment. Our findings suggest that health providers should fully communicate with patients and provide information support in multiple dimensions during the shared-decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tianyu Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linjun Ju
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuyue Feng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xing Xiang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Pang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengjie Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Premawardhana LD, Taylor PN, Okosieme OE, Adlan MA, Obuobie EK, Dayan CM. Designing a combined liothyronine (LT3), L- thyroxine (LT4) trial in symptomatic hypothyroid subjects on LT4 - the importance of patient selection, choice of LT3 and trial design. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1282608. [PMID: 38034018 PMCID: PMC10687631 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1282608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10%-15% of subjects with hypothyroidism on L-thyroxine (LT4) alone have persistent symptoms affecting their quality of life (QoL). Although the cause is unclear, there is evidence that "tissue T3 lack" may be responsible. If so, combining liothyronine (LT3) with LT4 would be helpful. However, randomized controlled trials (RCT), have not established greater efficacy for the LT3 + LT4 combination in these subjects than for LT4 alone. While the trial design may have been responsible, the use of unphysiological, short-acting LT3 preparations and non-thyroid-specific patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) may have contributed. We recommend attention to the following aspects of trial design for future RCTs of LT3 + LT4 compared to LT4 alone: (a) Subject selection-(i) measurable symptoms (disadvantages should be recognized); (ii) using a validated thyroid specific PROM such as ThyPRO39 or the Composite scale derived from it; (iii) those taking over 1.2 μg/day or 100 μg/day (for pragmatic reasons) of LT4 defining a population likely without intrinsic thyroid activity who depend on exogenous LT4; (iv) recruiting a preponderance of subjects with autoimmune thyroiditis increasing generalisability; and (v) those with a high symptom load with a greater response to combination therapy e.g. those with the deiodinase 2 polymorphism. (b) The use of physiological LT3 preparations producing pharmacokinetic similarities to T3 profiles in unaffected subjects: two long-acting LT3 preparations are currently available and must be tested in phase 2b/3 RCTs. (c) The superiority of a crossover design in limiting numbers and costs while maintaining statistical power and ensuring that all subjects experienced the investigative medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakdasa D. Premawardhana
- Thyroid Research Group, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Nicholas Taylor
- Thyroid Research Group, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Onyebuchi E. Okosieme
- Thyroid Research Group, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed A. Adlan
- Section of Endocrinology, Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr and Royal Gwent Hospitals, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel K. Obuobie
- Section of Endocrinology, Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr and Royal Gwent Hospitals, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Mark Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Grove-Laugesen D, Ebbehoj E, Watt T, Riis AL, Østergård T, Bruun BJ, Juel Christiansen J, Hansen KW, Rejnmark L. Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Graves' Disease: The DAGMAR Trial. Thyroid 2023; 33:1110-1118. [PMID: 37218433 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Treatment options in Graves' disease (GD) are limited and do not target the underlying autoimmunity, and relapse rates following a course of antithyroid drug (ATD) reach 50%. Previous research has shown promising results for a role of vitamin D in GD. We aimed to investigate whether vitamin D reduces failure to enter and sustain remission in patients with GD treated with ATD. Design: A multicenter, double-blinded, randomized placebo-controlled trial comparing vitamin D 70 mcg once daily (2800 IU) or placebo. The intervention was given first as add-on to ATD treatment, maximally 24 months, and then for 12 months after ATD cessation. Inclusion period was from 2015 to 2017 and study completion by December 2020. Patients included were adults with a first-time diagnosis of GD treated with ATD. Exclusion criteria included pregnancy and glucocorticoid treatment. The primary endpoint was failure to enter and sustain remission defined as relapse of hyperthyroidism within 12 months after ATD cessation, inability to stop ATD within 24 months, or radioiodine treatment or thyroidectomy. Two hundred seventy-eight patients were included in the study, and 4 patients withdrew consent. No adverse effects were found. Results: Participants were aged 44 ± 14 years at enrollment and 79% were female. The risk of failure to enter and sustain remission was 42% [95% confidence interval (CI) 33-50%] in the vitamin D group and 32% [CI 24-40%] in the placebo group corresponding to a relative risk of 1.30 [CI 0.95-1.78]. Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation did not improve the treatment of GD in patients with normal or insufficient vitamin D status. Thus, supplementation with high-dose vitamin D cannot be recommended for GD. Study registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02384668.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Grove-Laugesen
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Eva Ebbehoj
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Hovedstaden, Denmark
| | - Anne Lene Riis
- Medical Department, Regionshospitalet Horsens, Horsens, Midtjylland, Denmark
| | - Torben Østergård
- Medical Department, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, North Denmark Region, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Lars Rejnmark
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, Denmark
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Larsen CB, Winther KH, Cramon PK, Rasmussen ÅK, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Groenvold M, Bjorner JB, Hegedüs L, Watt T, Bonnema SJ. Severity of hypothyroidism is inversely associated with impaired quality of life in patients referred to an endocrine clinic. Thyroid Res 2023; 16:37. [PMID: 37658415 PMCID: PMC10472621 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00178-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the association between health-related quality of life (HRQL) and the severity of hypothyroidism at diagnosis in patients referred to a secondary hospital clinic. METHODS Sixty-seven adult patients referred from primary care were enrolled. All patients had newly diagnosed hypothyroidism due to autoimmune thyroiditis and were treated with levothyroxine (LT4). The dose was adjusted according to thyroid function tests aiming at a normal plasma thyrotropin. Patients were stratified according to the severity of hypothyroidism in two different ways: the conventional approach (subclinical or overt hypothyroidism) and a novel approach according to the change (decrease or increase) in plasma level of free triiodothyronine index (FT3I) following LT4 treatment. The ThyPRO-39 questionnaire was used for measurement of HRQL at referral to the Endocrine Outpatient Clinic (higher score corresponds to worse HRQL). RESULTS Free thyroxine index (FT4I) at diagnosis correlated positively with the scores on the Hypothyroid Symptoms and Tiredness scales (p = 0.018 for both). In accordance, patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (n = 36) scored higher on Hypothyroid Symptoms (p = 0.029) than patients with overt hypothyroidism (n = 31). The difference in HRQL was more pronounced if patients were stratified according to the dynamics in FT3I following LT4 treatment. Thus, patients who showed a decrease in FT3I following treatment (n = 24) scored significantly worse for Anxiety (p = 0.032) and Emotional Susceptibility (p = 0.035) than patients with an increase in FT3I (n = 43). CONCLUSION Patients referred to an endocrine clinic with mild hypothyroidism had an impaired HRQL, compared to patients with more severe hypothyroidism. The most likely explanation of this finding is a lower threshold for seeking medical consultation and secondary care referral if HRQL is deteriorated. The dynamics in plasma FT3I following treatment may be more sensitive for such a discrimination in HRQL than a stratification according to the thyroid function tests at diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla B Larsen
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Kristian Hillert Winther
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Per Karkov Cramon
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Åse Krogh Rasmussen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mogens Groenvold
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Bue Bjorner
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev-Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Steen Joop Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 6, DK-5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Mehuys E, Lapauw B, T'Sjoen G, Christiaens T, De Sutter A, Steurbaut S, Van Tongelen I, Boussery K. Investigating Levothyroxine Use and Its Association with Thyroid Health in Patients with Hypothyroidism: A Community Pharmacy Study. Thyroid 2023; 33:918-926. [PMID: 37184683 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: To gain maximum therapeutic effect while minimizing side effects, it is imperative for patients with hypothyroidism to use their levothyroxine (LT4) correctly, such as adhering to the prescribed regimen. Little is currently known about how patients actually use LT4 in real life. We investigated the use of LT4, as well as the thyroid health (thyrotropin [TSH] and health-related quality of life [HR-QoL]), and evaluated if proper LT4 use is associated with better thyroid health. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a Belgian community sample of adults using LT4 for hypothyroidism since ≥2 years. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire on patient characteristics, self-reported adherence to LT4, timing of intake, and co-medication. They also completed the thyroid-specific patient-reported outcome (ThyPRO-39) questionnaire, measuring the HR-QoL. Pharmacy dispensing data were used to calculate the medication possession ratio (MPR). Results: We included 856 participants (mean age 61.4 ± 14.3 years, 86% [740/856] females). Approximately one in four participants (138/563) had out-of-range TSH levels. Generally, ThyPRO-39 scores were in the lower part of the range (indicating better HR-QoL), with the scales "emotional susceptibility" and "tiredness" showing the worst scores. Approximately 28% (178/632) of the participants were classified as non-adherent (MPR <80%), corresponding to at least 73 cumulative days per year without LT4 intake. Twenty-five percent (212/854) of participants self-reported non-adherence, with unintentional non-adherence (forgetfulness) most frequently reported (21.9%, 187/854). Only 39% (329/836) of participants complied with the recommendation of ingesting LT4 ≥ 30 minutes before eating. Additionally, 7% (58/856) of participants concurrently used molecules that bind to LT4, without applying the recommended dosing interval. There was no significant correlation between LT4 usage (adherence, timing of intake, and interaction with complex forming drugs) and TSH or HR-QoL. Conclusions: We found that many participants with hypothyroidism did not use their LT4 as effectively as possible, particularly with respect to timing of administration. However, the participants' HR-QoL seemed largely satisfactory, and there was no significant correlation between correctly using LT4 and thyroid health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Els Mehuys
- Pharmaceutical Care Unit, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bruno Lapauw
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thierry Christiaens
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - An De Sutter
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stephane Steurbaut
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Research, Research Group of Clinical Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Jette, Belgium
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, UZ Brussel, Jette, Belgium
| | - Inge Van Tongelen
- Pharmaceutical Care Unit, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Boussery
- Pharmaceutical Care Unit, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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10
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Ahluwalia R, Baldeweg SE, Boelaert K, Chatterjee K, Dayan C, Okosieme O, Priestley J, Taylor P, Vaidya B, Zammitt N, Pearce SH. Use of liothyronine (T3) in hypothyroidism: Joint British Thyroid Association/Society for endocrinology consensus statement. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 99:206-216. [PMID: 37272400 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Persistent symptoms in patients treated for hypothyroidism are common. Despite more than 20 years of debate, the use of liothyronine for this indication remains controversial, as numerous randomised trials have failed to show a benefit of treatment regimens that combine liothyronine (T3) with levothyroxine over levothyroxine monotherapy. This consensus statement attempts to provide practical guidance to clinicians faced with patients who have persistent symptoms during thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It applies to non-pregnant adults and is focussed on care delivered within the UK National Health Service, although it may be relevant in other healthcare environments. The statement emphasises several key clinical practice points for patients dissatisfied with treatment for hypothyroidism. Firstly, it is important to establish a diagnosis of overt hypothyroidism; patients with persistent symptoms during thyroid hormone replacement but with no clear biochemical evidence of overt hypothyroidism should first have a trial without thyroid hormone replacement. In those with established overt hypothyroidism, levothyroxine doses should be optimised aiming for a TSH in the 0.3-2.0 mU/L range for 3 to 6 months before a therapeutic response can be assessed. In some patients, it may be acceptable to have serum TSH below reference range (e.g. 0.1-0.3 mU/L), but not fully suppressed in the long term. We suggest that for some patients with confirmed overt hypothyroidism and persistent symptoms who have had adequate treatment with levothyroxine and in whom other comorbidities have been excluded, a trial of liothyronine/levothyroxine combined therapy may be warranted. The decision to start treatment with liothyronine should be a shared decision between patient and clinician. However, individual clinicians should not feel obliged to start liothyronine or to continue liothyronine medication provided by other health care practitioners or accessed without medical advice, if they judge this not to be in the patient's best interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupa Ahluwalia
- Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Stephanie E Baldeweg
- Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology, University College London, London, UK
- Centre for Obesity & Metabolism, Department of Experimental & Translational Medicine, Division of Medicine, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
- The RCP Joint Specialties Committee and The Clinical Committee, Society for Endocrinology, Bristol, UK
| | - Kristien Boelaert
- Institute for Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Krishna Chatterjee
- Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Colin Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, Heath Park, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | - Peter Taylor
- Thyroid Research Group, Heath Park, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Bijay Vaidya
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Devon University Hospital |University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Nicola Zammitt
- Edinburgh Centre for Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Simon H Pearce
- BioMedicine West, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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11
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Tuzil J, Pilnackova BF, Watt T, Jiskra J, Koudelkova M, Novotna E, Tuzilova K, Dolezal T, Bartakova J. The Impact of Subclinical Hypothyroidism on the Quality of Life During Pregnancy: Mapping 5-Level Version of EQ-5D and ThyPRO-39. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2023; 26:1085-1097. [PMID: 36878311 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2023.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe how subclinical hypothyroidism (SubHypo) influences the quality of life (QoL) during pregnancy. METHODS In primary data collection (NCT04167423), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroid peroxidase antibodies, generic quality of life (QoL; 5-level version of EQ-5D [EQ-5D-5L]), and disease-specific QoL (ThyPRO-39) were measured among pregnant women. SubHypo during each trimester was defined according to the 2014 European Thyroid Association guidelines (TSH > 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 IU/L, respectively; with normal FT4). Path analysis described relationships and tested mediation. Linear ordinary least squares, beta, tobit, and two-part regressions were used to map ThyPRO-39 and EQ-5D-5L. Alternative SubHypo definition was tested in sensitivity analysis. RESULTS A total of 253 women at 14 sites (31 ± 5 years old, 15 ± 6 weeks pregnant) completed the questionnaires. Sixty-one (26%) had SubHypo and differed from 174 (74%) euthyroid women in smoking history (61% vs 41%), primiparity (62% vs 43%) and TSH level (4.1 ± 1.4 vs 1.5 ± 0.7 mIU/L, P < .001). EQ-5D-5L utility in SubHypo (0.89 ± 0.12) was lower than that in euthyroid (0.92 ± 0.11; P = .028) even after adjustment (difference -0.04, P = .033), whereas ocular (P = .001, ThyPRO-39), cognitive symptoms (P = .043), anxiety (P < .0001), and the composite score were higher. The impact of SubHypo on utility was mediated by anxiety. Results were confirmed by sensitivity analysis. Final mapping equation (ordinary least squares) includes goiter symptoms, anxiety, upset stomach, composite score (ThyPRO-39), FT4 levels, and week of pregnancy (determination coefficient 0.36). CONCLUSION This is the first QoL mapping of SubHypo during pregnancy and the first evidence that SubHypo is associated with a negative impact on QoL. The effect is mediated by anxiety. EQ-5D-5L utilities can be generated based on ThyPRO-39 scores collected in pregnant euthyroid and patients with SubHypo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Tuzil
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology Assessment, Prague, Czech Republic; First Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan Jiskra
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, General University Hospital, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marcela Koudelkova
- Institute of Health Information and Statistics of the Czech Republic, National Screening Centre, Praha, Czech Republic; Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Novotna
- Outpatient gynecology Femcare s.r.o., Odolena Voda, Czech Republic
| | | | - Tomas Dolezal
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology Assessment, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Bartakova
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Health Economics Facility, Department of Public Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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12
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Rigó A, Malkov K, Szabó A, Bognár VK, Urbán R. Adaptation and validation of the Hungarian version of Thyroid-Related Patient-Reported Outcome-39 (ThyPro-39) questionnaire: testing factor structure, known-group validity with the comparison of quality of life in Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2023; 7:60. [PMID: 37368126 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-023-00606-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Living with autoimmune thyroid disease is a longstanding challenge and can seriously affect the quality of life. We aimed to adapt and validate the Hungarian version of the Thyroid-Related Patient-Reported Outcome-39 (ThyPro-39) questionnaire, test its factor structure, and compare two frequent autoimmune thyroid diseases, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and Graves' disease. We tested the factor structure of ThyPro-39 with a series of confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs). To examine the validity of ThyPro-39 and to compare the quality of life of the two groups - Hashimoto's thyroiditis (N = 240), Graves' disease (N = 51) - CFA with covariates were used. RESULTS Our results supported a bifactor model with psychosocial and somatic symptoms as general factors, and 12 symptom-specific factors. Based on the analysis of omega hierarchical indices ranging between 0.22 and 0.66, the specific scales also carry information besides the composite scores and should be used when a more detailed analysis is required. In the multivariate analysis, perceived stress was significantly associated with the general psychosocial factor (β = 0.80), symptom factors (β = 0.34), anxiety (β = 0.43), depressivity (β = 0.37), and emotional susceptibility (β = 0.38) specific factors. Graves' patients reported more eye symptoms (d = 0.45) and cosmetic complaints (d = 0.40), while Hashimoto patients had more cognitive problems (d = 0.36) and more severe hypothyroid symptoms (d = 0.35). These group differences confirm the known-group validity of the questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS The validity of the Hungarian version of ThyPRO-39 is supported. We recommend using two composite scores of psychosocial and somatic symptoms and the specific symptoms scores to measure the quality of life in clinical practice and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Rigó
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella utca 46, Budapest, H-1064, Hungary.
| | - Katalin Malkov
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella utca 46, Budapest, H-1064, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Szabó
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella utca 46, Budapest, H-1064, Hungary
| | - Virág Katalin Bognár
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella utca 46, Budapest, H-1064, Hungary
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Róbert Urbán
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Izabella utca 46, Budapest, H-1064, Hungary
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13
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Ravensberg AJ, Poortvliet RKE, Du Puy RS, Dekkers OM, Mooijaart SP, Gussekloo J. Effects of discontinuation of levothyroxine treatment in older adults: protocol for a self-controlled trial. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070741. [PMID: 37185193 PMCID: PMC10151847 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many older persons use the thyroid hormone levothyroxine which is often continued for life. Scientifically, there is much uncertainty whether simple continuation is the optimal approach. First, the physical need for levothyroxine can decrease with age thereby posing a higher risk of overtreatment and adverse effects. Second, large trials in subclinical hypothyroidism have shown no benefit for the use of levothyroxine. Interestingly, guidelines do not address re-evaluation of the indication. This self-controlled trial aims to determine the effects of discontinuation of levothyroxine treatment in older adults. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Participants are community-dwelling subjects aged ≥60 years using levothyroxine continuously at a stable dosage of ≤150 µg and a level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) <10 mU/L. After a control period of 12 weeks, levothyroxine treatment is discontinued gradually using a stepwise approach with regular monitoring of thyroid function guided by their GP. The primary outcome is the proportion of participants withdrawn from levothyroxine while maintaining a free T4 level within the reference range and a TSH level <10 mU/L, 52 weeks after the start of discontinuation. Secondary outcomes are compared with the control period (self-controlled) and include among others, the effects on thyroid-specific and general health-related quality of life. Furthermore, patients' attitudes towards deprescribing and regret regarding discontinuing levothyroxine treatment will be recorded. A total of 513 participants will be recruited to estimate the expected proportion of 50% with a 95% CI ranging from 45% to 55%. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Approval was obtained from the institutional Medical Ethics Committee. The Older People Advisory Board Health and Well-being has reviewed the research proposal and their comments were used for improvement. In line with the funding policies of the grant organisation funding this study, the study results will be proactively disseminated to the general public and key public health stakeholders. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NL7978; NCT05821881.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Janneke Ravensberg
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Rosalinde K E Poortvliet
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- University Network for the Care Sector Zuid-Holland, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Robert S Du Puy
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Olaf M Dekkers
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Disorders, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Simon P Mooijaart
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
| | - Jacobijn Gussekloo
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
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14
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Seo GT, Urken ML, Wein LE, Saturno MP, Kapustin D, Xing MH, Yue LE, Dowling EM, Revenson TA, Roberts KJ, Tuttle RM. Psychological adjustment to initial treatment for low-risk thyroid cancer: Preliminary study. Head Neck 2023; 45:439-448. [PMID: 36495223 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma (LR-PTC) can be managed by immediate surgery (IS) or active surveillance (AS). We compare the psychological impact of these treatments on patients with LR-PTC. METHODS Psychological data were collected over 1 year, with assessments at the time of treatment decision (T1), at 6 months (T2) and 12 months (T3) follow-up. Assessments included 13 validated psychological tools. RESULTS Of 27 enrolled patients, 20 chose AS and 7 chose IS. The average times to T2 and T3 were 5.7 and 11.3 months, respectively. For both groups, Impact of Events Scale scores significantly decreased (p = 0.001) at T2, and depressive/anxiety symptoms remained low. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the feasibility of assessing psychological outcomes among patients treated for LR-PTC. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of AS versus IS on quality of life and changes that patients experience over longer time periods following their treatment decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella T Seo
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mark L Urken
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lauren E Wein
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michael P Saturno
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Danielle Kapustin
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Monica H Xing
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lauren E Yue
- THANC (Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer) Foundation, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eric M Dowling
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Tracey A Revenson
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Katherine J Roberts
- Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robert Michael Tuttle
- Endocrinology Service-Division of Subspecialty Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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15
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Watt T, Christoffersen T, Brogaard MB, Bjorner JB, Bentzen J, Hahn CH, Nygaard B, Feldt-Rasmussen U. Quality of life in thyroid cancer. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 37:101732. [PMID: 36732089 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2023.101732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
To explore the impact of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) on quality of life (QoL) a clinical analytical framework was developed. Based on the clinical analytical framework, a systematic literature search was performed to identify studies applying patient-reported outcomes (PRO) instruments among patients with DTC. Subsequently, the scope was narrowed down to studies comparing scores on the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Short form 36 (SF-36) to a reference population (clinical interpretability criterion). Further, the currently available thyroid cancer (TC) specific QoL PROs were review in accordance with the standards of the International Society of Quality of Life Research. In the initial search, 213 studies were included. The additional 'clinical interpretability'-criteria, limited the final study sample to 16 studies, 13 cross-sectional and 3 longitudinal. QoL was impacted across all SF-36 scales. The impact was generally modest and the impact was impeded by time since diagnosis and treatment. Four TC specific instruments were identified. Generally, the documentation of their measurement properties, particularly content validity and clinical validity, including substantial quantitative validation, was scarce. As was the cross-cultural applicability of the currently available instruments. This restricted, focused, clinically founded review showed an impact on a broad range of QoL issues. There is a need for large-scale measurement of QoL outcome longitudinally, using well-validated PRO instruments in order to identify with certainty the impact on subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Thea Christoffersen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mathilde Borring Brogaard
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Jakob Bue Bjorner
- QualityMetric Incorporated, LLC, Johnston, RI, USA; Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Bentzen
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Christoffer Holst Hahn
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Neck Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birte Nygaard
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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16
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Halada S, Baran JA, Isaza A, Patel T, Sisko L, Kazahaya K, Adzick NS, Katowitz WR, Magee L, Bauer AJ. Impact of Definitive Surgery for Graves' Disease on Adolescent Disease-Specific Quality of Life and Psychosocial Functioning. Thyroid 2022; 32:1519-1528. [PMID: 36254382 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Pediatric Graves' disease (GD) is associated with hyperthyroid symptoms that impact psychosocial and physical functioning. Total thyroidectomy (TT) is a definitive treatment option that replaces antithyroid medication. While studies have examined health-related quality of life (QOL) in adults, there are no data describing impacts of TT in pediatrics. In this prospective longitudinal study, we explored the impact of TT on disease-specific QOL and satisfaction with TT and scar appearance in adolescent patients with GD undergoing TT. Methods: Patients 12-19 years old pursuing TT for GD and their parents were recruited to complete surveys before and at least 6 months after TT. Surveys assessed motivations for pursuing TT, QOL, perceived stigmatization, self-esteem, scar appearance, and surgery satisfaction. Paired scores were compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and subscore associations were assessed using Spearman association tests. Results: Thirty-seven patient-parent dyads completed baseline surveys, including 20 patient-parent dyads completing pre- and post-TT surveys. At baseline, patients reported physical and cognitive symptomology, including tiredness, anxiety, and emotional susceptibility through ThyPRO. Psychosocial functioning at school was low through PedsQL. Disease-specific QOL significantly improved after TT, with notable improvements associated with resolution of goiter (median change = -26.14, p = 0.003), hyperthyroid symptoms (median change = -43.75, p = 0.002), tiredness (median change = -26.79, p = 0.017), cognitive impairment (median change = -14.58, p = 0.035), anxiety (median change = -33.33, p = 0.010), and emotional susceptibility (median change = -28.99, p = 0.035). Physical (median change = 18.75, p = 0.005) and school-related functioning (median change = 30.00, p = 0.002) also significantly improved post-TT. Reported GD-associated eye symptomology (thyroid eye disease) was the second lowest scoring ThyPRO subscore at baseline and improved after surgery (median change = 14.06, p = 0.03). Families reported median recovery by two months, high satisfaction with the outcomes of TT, and minimal concerns over scar appearance. No permanent surgical complications (i.e., recurrent laryngeal nerve damage or hypoparathyroidism) were sustained. Conclusions: In the setting of a high-volume surgeon with low complication rates, TT for GD in pediatric populations may have substantial beneficial effects on disease-specific QOL and psychosocial functioning, with minimal adverse complaints about scar appearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Halada
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Thyroid Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Julia A Baran
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Thyroid Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amber Isaza
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Thyroid Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tasleema Patel
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Thyroid Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lindsay Sisko
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Thyroid Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ken Kazahaya
- Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - N Scott Adzick
- Division of Pediatric General, Thoracic and Fetal Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William R Katowitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Leanne Magee
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Oral Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania , USA
| | - Andrew J Bauer
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Thyroid Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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17
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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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Perros P, Hegedüs L, Nagy EV, Papini E, Hay HA, Abad-Madroñero J, Tallett AJ, Bilas M, Lakwijk P, Poots AJ. The Impact of Hypothyroidism on Satisfaction with Care and Treatment and Everyday Living: Results from E-Mode Patient Self-Assessment of Thyroid Therapy, a Cross-Sectional, International Online Patient Survey. Thyroid 2022; 32:1158-1168. [PMID: 35959734 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Hypothyroid patients often report dissatisfaction and poor quality of life. This survey explored the impact of hypothyroidism on patient satisfaction, everyday living, experiences with health care professionals, and influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors. Methods: Cross-sectional questionnaire survey targeting an international population of hypothyroid patients. Multilevel regression modeling was used for analyses. Results: The total number of responses was 3915 from 68 countries. Satisfaction with care and treatment was not associated with type of treatment for hypothyroidism. Having no confidence and trust in health care professionals was strongly associated with dissatisfaction (p < 0.001). Controlling for all other variables, significant differences were found among satisfaction rates between countries. A weak inverse relationship was found between satisfaction with care and treatment and impact on everyday living (p < 0.001). Respondents taking levothyroxine (LT4) alone were more likely to report a positive impact on everyday living (pooled odds ratio 2.376 [confidence interval: 0.941-5.997]) than respondents taking liothyronine-containing treatments. Conclusions: Low levels of satisfaction with care and treatment for hypothyroidism were strongly associated with lack of confidence and trust and negative experiences with health care professionals. Differences in responses between countries were noted, implying the potential influence of national health care systems, socioeconomic and cultural factors. Contrary to widespread anecdotes in social media, this large-scale survey shows no association between type of treatment for hypothyroidism and patient satisfaction, as well as better outcomes on everyday living associated with LT4, compared with liothyronine-containing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Endre Vezekenyi Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Megan Bilas
- Picker Institute Europe, Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Lakwijk
- Thyroid Federation International, Bath, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alan J Poots
- Picker Institute Europe, Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
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19
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Jonklaas J, Bianco AC. Enhancing the Patient Voice: Quality of Life, Satisfaction, and Preference During Treatment of Hypothyroidism. Thyroid 2022; 32:1139-1141. [PMID: 36136911 PMCID: PMC9836669 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2022.0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Antonio Carlos Bianco
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Uslar V, Becker C, Weyhe D, Tabriz N. Thyroid disease-specific quality of life questionnaires - A systematic review. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab 2022; 5:e357. [PMID: 35856310 PMCID: PMC9471597 DOI: 10.1002/edm2.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thyroid diseases are very common and rarely life-threatening. One of the main therapeutic goals is an improvement in quality of life, making it important to measure in clinical and research settings. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the currently available thyroid-specific quality of life questionnaires with regard to their validation quality in order to make recommendations for clinical use with a special focus on German questionnaires. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed in Pubmed, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library. A total of 904 studies were identified. After excluding duplicates, non-English- or German-language texts, full texts that were not freely available and studies with irrelevant content, 64 studies reporting on 16 different questionnaires were included in the analysis. RESULTS Four questionnaires concerned benign thyroid diseases (ThyPRO, ThyPRO-39, Thy-R-HRQoL and Thy-D-QOL), six malignant thyroid diseases (THYCA-QoL, ThyCa-HRLQOL, EORTC-Thy34, MADSI-Thy, QOL-Thyroid and ThyCAT), and six endocrine orbitopathy (GO-QOL, GO-QLS, TED-QOL, STED-QOL, TAO-QoL and Ox-TED). Only five questionnaires were at least developed, if not validated, in German, and five were developed in more than two languages. CONCLUSIONS ThyPRO and the ThyPRO-39 are the best-evaluated questionnaires for benign thyroid diseases. Alternatively, in hypothyroid patients, the adequately validated Thy-D-QoL can be used. For malignant thyroid diseases, the choice should be made individually, as all six questionnaires (THYCA-QoL, ThyCA-HRQOL, EORTC-Thy34, MDASI-Thy, QOL-Thyroid and ThyCAT) have different strengths and weaknesses. The GO-QOL is the best-validated questionnaire in endocrine orbitopathy. However, the TED-QOL is also suitable as a short-screening questionnaire for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Uslar
- University Hospital for Visceral SurgeryCarl von Ossietzky University OldenburgOldenburgGermany
| | - Caroline Becker
- University Hospital for Visceral SurgeryCarl von Ossietzky University OldenburgOldenburgGermany
| | - Dirk Weyhe
- University Hospital for Visceral SurgeryCarl von Ossietzky University OldenburgOldenburgGermany
| | - Navid Tabriz
- University Hospital for Visceral SurgeryCarl von Ossietzky University OldenburgOldenburgGermany
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21
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de Koster EJ, Husson O, van Dam EWCM, Mijnhout GS, Netea-Maier RT, Oyen WJG, Snel M, de Geus-Oei LF, Vriens D. Health-related quality of life following FDG-PET/CT for cytological indeterminate thyroid nodules. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:e220014. [PMID: 35731242 PMCID: PMC9346328 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0014] [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: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study assessed the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients undergoing 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG)-PET/CT for an indeterminate (Bethesda III/IV) thyroid nodule. FDG-PET/CT accurately rules out malignancy and prevents 40% of futile diagnostic surgeries in these nodules. Design Secondary analyses of HRQoL data from a randomised controlled multicentre trial (NCT02208544) in 126 patients from 15 hospitals in the Netherlands were done. Methods Longitudinal HRQoL assessment was performed using the EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L), the RAND 36-item Health Survey v2.0 (RAND-36), and the Thyroid Patient-Reported Outcome (ThyPRO) questionnaire on baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months, relative to the date of the FDG-PET/CT scan. Results Patients who were randomised to active surveillance following an FDG-negative nodule instead of diagnostic surgery reported stable HRQoL scores throughout the year. Univariate analysis indicated better HRQoL for patients undergoing surveillance than surgical patients with benign histopathology on multiple physical and psychosocial domains. Univariate within-group analysis suggested both temporary and continued HRQoL deteriorations in patients with benign histopathology over time. Multivariate within-group analysis demonstrated no significant longitudinal HRQoL changes in patients undergoing active surveillance. In contrast, in patients with benign histopathology, worse HRQoL was observed with regard to ThyPRO cognitive impairment (P = 0.01) and cosmetic complaints (P = 0.02), whereas goitre symptoms (P < 0.001) and anxiety (P = 0.04) improved over time. In patients with malignant histopathology, anxiety also decreased (P = 0.05). Conclusions The reassurance of a negative FDG-PET/CT resulted in sustained HRQoL throughout the first year of active surveillance. Diagnostic surgery for a nodule with benign histopathology resulted in more cognitive impairment and physical problems including cosmetic complaints, but improved goitre symptoms and anxiety. Anxiety was also reduced in patients with malignant histopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J de Koster
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Eveline W C M van Dam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Sophie Mijnhout
- Department of Internal Medicine, Isala Hospital, Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - Romana T Netea-Maier
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wim J G Oyen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Marieke Snel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lioe-Fee de Geus-Oei
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis Vriens
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - for the EfFECTS trial study group
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Clinical Studies, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Isala Hospital, Zwolle, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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22
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Sorensen JR, Døssing H, Watt T, Cramon P, Hegedüs L, Bonnema SJ, Folkestad L. The Effect of Laser Thermal Ablation on Quality of Life: Improvements in Patients with Solid-Cystic Thyroid Nodules. Thyroid 2022; 32:917-925. [PMID: 35570722 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Evidence of the efficacy of laser thermal ablation (LTA) in benign thyroid nodules is abundant. However, little is known about the effect on quality of life (QoL) of this treatment. Methods: Prospective cohort study investigating the effect of LTA before, three, and six months after LTA on QoL using the thyroid-specific patient-reported outcome (ThyPRO) measure. Patients receiving LTA (laser group [LG]) was compared with a well-characterized control group (CG) from the Danish civil registry. Results: The LG comprised 54 patients, with no age or sex differences compared with the CG (n = 739). Sixty-nine percent of the patients had a recurrent cystic thyroid nodule, 6% had a solid nodule, while the remaining 25% were of mixed character. The median nodule volume was 6.8 mL (interquartile range [IQR]: 4.0-11.1) before LTA, and 1.8 mL (IQR: 0.6-4.1) at 6 months post-LTA (p < 0.001), corresponding to a median reduction of 78%. All cystic fluid (median: 6 mL; IQR: 2.0-9.0) was aspirated before LTA. Median treatment time was 400 seconds (IQR: 300-600), applying a median energy of 823 J (IQR: 600-1200). At baseline and according to the ThyPRO scales, the LG differed significantly from the CG by having more goiter symptoms, hyperthyroid symptoms, tiredness, and cognitive complaints (p < 0.05 for all variables), but only the difference in the goiter symptom scale was of a clinically important magnitude. At three months, the LG experienced a large improvement in goiter symptoms (effect size [ES] = 1.05), a moderate improvement in cosmetic complaints (ES = 0.50), and a moderate improvement in the overall QoL (ES = 0.64). Only the improvements in the goiter symptom and the cosmetic complaint scales were clinically important. Six months after LTA, the anxiety scale showed further improvement of moderate size (ES = 0.52). At 6 months, the results above were maintained, and 79% of patients experienced a large and clinically important improvement in the goiter symptom scale and no clinically important differences were found between the LG and the CG. Conclusions: In this unblinded, prospective observational study, measures of disease-specific QoL were significantly improved compared with preprocedure levels, in patients with solid-cystic nodules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper Roed Sorensen
- Department of ORL-Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology and Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Helle Døssing
- Department of ORL-Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology and Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Per Cramon
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Steen Joop Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Lars Folkestad
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
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Feasibility and Safety of Ambulatory Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via Vestibular Approach (TOETVA). World J Surg 2022; 46:2678-2686. [PMID: 35854011 PMCID: PMC9295883 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-022-06666-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Background In search of an ideal cosmesis, transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy via vestibular approach (TOETVA) has recently been introduced to avoid a visible scar. Although ambulatory thyroid surgery is considered safe in carefully selected patients, this remains unclear for TOETVA. Methods All consecutive adult patients who underwent ambulatory TOETVA or open thyroid surgery at a French university hospital were prospectively enrolled from 12/2020 until 11/2021. The primary outcome was postoperative morbidity (recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy, re-intervention for bleeding, wound morbidity, or hospital readmission). The secondary outcome was quality of life (QoL), measured by a survey including a validated questionnaire (SF-12) and a modified thyroid surgery questionnaire six weeks after surgery. Results Throughout the study period, 374 patients underwent a unilateral lobectomy or isthmectomy in ambulatory setting, of which 34 (9%) as TOETVA (including 21 (62%) for a possible malignancy). In the TOETVA group, younger age (median 40 (IQR 35–50) vs. 51 (40–60) years, P < 0.001) and lower BMI (median 23.1 (20.9–25.4) vs. 24.9 (22.1–28.9) kg/m2, P = 0.001) were noted. No cases were converted to open cervicotomy. TOETVA was at least as good as open cervicotomy with nil versus four (1%) re-interventions for bleeding, one temporary (5%) versus 13 (4%) (temporary) RLN palsies, and one (<1%) wound infection (open cervicotomy group). No hospital readmissions occurred in all ambulatory surgery patients. No differences were found in physical (P = 0.280) and mental (P = 0.569) QoL between TOETVA and open surgery. Conclusions In carefully selected patients, the feasibility and safety of ambulatory TOETVA are comparable to open surgery. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00268-022-06666-y.
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Abstract
Background: Some levothyroxine (LT4)-treated hypothyroid patients report a constellation of persistent and distressing cognitive symptoms that has been termed brain fog. This narrative review focuses on attempts to define and measure hypothyroid-associated brain fog, summarize possible etiologies and contributing factors, present treatment options, and propose avenues for future research. Methods: Published literature was reviewed to summarize available information on patient-reported symptoms associated with brain fog in hypothyroidism, as well as objective evidence of impairment based on neurocognitive testing and functional imaging studies. Given the limited information specific for hypothyroid-associated brain fog, relevant data from other medical conditions associated with brain fog were also reviewed and incorporated into recommendations for clinical care and future research areas. Results: Hypothyroid-associated brain fog has not been well defined or quantitated, and the underlying pathophysiology is unclear. Symptoms vary among patients but commonly include fatigue, depressed mood, and cognitive difficulties in the areas of memory and executive function. Symptoms often predate the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, and the magnitude of cognitive impairment can range from mild to severe. Regardless of severity, these symptoms are associated with impaired quality of life and cause dissatisfaction with treatment, so often lead to requests for alternate therapies. Disease-specific and psychological factors impact the experience of brain fog in complex ways, including potential limitations in LT4 monotherapy, self-knowledge of a disease state, and expectations for therapeutic effects. Conclusions: Brain fog is a variable symptom complex in people with hypothyroidism, causing significant distress and diminished quality of life. In the absence of proven therapies, individualized treatment plans are recommended, which incorporate thyroid-specific, general medical, and psychosocial approaches. In particular, cognitive rehabilitation is an underutilized technique that is beneficial in other medical conditions associated with brain fog and could improve symptoms in hypothyroid people. The limitations in our current knowledge and questions presented throughout this review highlight a major need for clinical research in this understudied area. Future research should include attention to standardization of survey instruments to quantitate brain fog in hypothyroid people, as well as rigorously designed intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary H. Samuels
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Lori J. Bernstein
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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25
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The Impact of Post-Thyroidectomy Neck Stretching Exercises on Neck Discomfort, Pressure Symptoms, Voice and Quality of Life: A Randomized Controlled Trial. World J Surg 2022; 46:2212-2222. [PMID: 35637354 PMCID: PMC9150879 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-022-06610-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusions
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26
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Abstract
Hypothyroidism is the common clinical condition of thyroid hormone deficiency and, if left untreated, can lead to serious adverse health effects on multiple organ systems, with the cardiovascular system as the most robustly studied target. Overt primary hypothyroidism is defined as elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration in combination with free thyroxine (fT4) concentration below the reference range. Subclinical hypothyroidism, commonly considered an early sign of thyroid failure, is defined by elevated TSH concentrations but fT4 concentrations within the reference range. Hypothyroidism is classified as primary, central or peripheral based on pathology in the thyroid, the pituitary or hypothalamus, or peripheral tissue, respectively. Acquired primary hypothyroidism is the most prevalent form and can be caused by severe iodine deficiency but is more frequently caused by chronic autoimmune thyroiditis in iodine-replete areas. The onset of hypothyroidism is insidious in most cases and symptoms may present relatively late in the disease process. There is a large variation in clinical presentation and the presence of hypothyroid symptoms, especially in pregnancy and in children. Levothyroxine (LT4) is the mainstay of treatment and is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs worldwide. After normalization of TSH and fT4 concentrations, a considerable proportion of patients treated with LT4 continue to have persistent complaints, compromising quality of life. Further research is needed regarding the appropriateness of currently applied reference ranges and treatment thresholds, particularly in pregnancy, and the potential benefit of LT4/liothyronine combination therapy for thyroid-related symptom relief, patient satisfaction and long-term adverse effects.
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Romero-Velez G, Burneikis T, Zolin SJ, Noureldine SI, Jin J, Berber E, Krishnamurthy VD, Shin J, Siperstein A. Quantifying disease-specific symptom improvement after parathyroid and thyroid surgery using patient-reported outcome measures. Am J Surg 2022; 224:923-927. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2022.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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28
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Hegedüs L, Bianco AC, Jonklaas J, Pearce SH, Weetman AP, Perros P. Primary hypothyroidism and quality of life. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:230-242. [PMID: 35042968 PMCID: PMC8930682 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00625-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In the 1970s, treatment with thyroid extract was superseded by levothyroxine, a synthetic L form of tetraiodothyronine. Since then, no major innovation has emerged for the treatment of hypothyroidism. The biochemical definition of subclinical hypothyroidism is a matter of debate. Indiscriminate screening for hypothyroidism has led to overdiagnosis and treatment initiation at lower serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) than previously. Adverse health effects have been documented in individuals with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and these adverse effects can affect health-related quality of life (QOL). Levothyroxine substitution improves, but does not always normalize, QOL, especially for individuals with mild hypothyroidism. However, neither studies combining levothyroxine and liothyronine (the synthetic form of tri-iodothyronine) nor the use of desiccated thyroid extract have shown robust improvements in patient satisfaction. Future studies should focus not only on a better understanding of an individual's TSH set point (the innate narrow physiological range of serum concentration of TSH in an individual, before the onset of hypothyroidism) and alternative thyroid hormone combinations and formulations, but also on autoimmunity and comorbidities unrelated to hypothyroidism as drivers of patient dissatisfaction. Attention to the long-term health consequences of hypothyroidism, beyond QOL, and the risks of overtreatment is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Paediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Simon H Pearce
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Anthony P Weetman
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Radiofrequency ablation for benign symptomatic thyroid nodules in the Netherlands: successful introduction of a minimally-invasive treatment option improving quality of life. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2022; 33:530-537.e1. [PMID: 35121096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2022.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim is to report the results of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with symptomatic benign thyroid nodules (SBTN) within our regional Thyroid Network and to evaluate their health-related and thyroid-related quality of life (QoL). MATERIALS AND METHODS Eligibility criteria for RFA were nodule size between 2.0 cm and 5.0 cm; solid component >20%; benign cytology on two separate cytological assessments and unequivocal symptoms related to mechanical compression. The primary end point of this study was volume reduction at 1 year post ablation. Secondary outcomes were health-related and thyroid related QoL measured by the SF-36 and ThyPRO-39 questionnaire as well as complication rates. RESULTS A total of 72 SBTN in 67 patients were included. The median age was 50.0 [IQR: 41.0 - 56.0] years and 91.0% were women. Median volume reduction at 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years were 51.0%, 63.9%, 65.2%, 81.3% and 90.3% respectively. Patients showed significant improvement on the SF-36 physical component scale and the ThyPRO-39 overall QoL-impact scale. An absolute improvement was seen within the ThyPRO-39 goiter and cosmetic complaints. The overall complication rate was 9.0%, of which 4.5% were considered major. CONCLUSION RFA is an effective treatment option for SBTN with significant volume reduction and improvement in health-related and thyroid-related QoL.
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Chaves N, Rodriguez MJ, Broekhuis JM, Chen HW, Bain PA, James BC. Quality of Life in Patients with Benign Non-Toxic Goiter After Surgical Intervention: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. World J Surg 2022; 46:1093-1104. [PMID: 35075521 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-022-06452-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior studies evaluating health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for benign non-toxic goiter have used different instruments and time points, leading to conflicting results. We sought to systematically review the differences in HR-QoL among patients with BNTG at baseline and 6 months after surgery, using exclusively the ThyPRO questionnaire. METHODS A systematic search was performed using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, and PsycINFO for papers reporting the assessment of HR-QoL utilizing ThyPRO. Data were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model, and pooled estimates were calculated using weighted mean differences (WMD) between baseline and 6 months after surgery. We assessed the quality and risk of bias of the studies using the Robins-I tool and previously published minimally important change (MIC) values to assess clinical significance. RESULTS Six papers met the predefined inclusion criteria, describing a total of 496 patients. Meta-analysis demonstrated improved QoL in all thirteen domains of ThyPRO six months post-surgical intervention compared to baseline. Specifically, the largest improvement in QoL was seen in the domains of overall QoL, WMD -25.84 (95% CI -29.70, -21.98, p < 0.001, I2 = 23%), goiter symptoms, 23.96 (95% CI -30.29, -17.64, p < 0.001, I2 = 91%), and tiredness, -16.20 (95% CI -19.23, -13.16, p < 0.001, I2 = 3%). The differences in scores 9 of 13 domains were clinically significant based on MIC. CONCLUSIONS Disease-specific HR-QoL improved in all ThyPRO domains after surgery in patients with BNTG. Future studies of QoL in thyroid surgery patients will benefit from a standard questionnaire and improved reporting of covariates including complications to ensure comparability across studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Chaves
- Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 185 Pilgrim Road, Palmer 605, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - M Juanita Rodriguez
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 185 Pilgrim Road, Palmer 605, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Jordan M Broekhuis
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 185 Pilgrim Road, Palmer 605, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Hao Wei Chen
- Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 185 Pilgrim Road, Palmer 605, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Paul A Bain
- Countway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin C James
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 185 Pilgrim Road, Palmer 605, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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Arikan AE, Ozyegin MA. Comparison of effects of energy based devices on quality of life after sutureless thyroidectomy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28518. [PMID: 35029207 PMCID: PMC8758027 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In current literature, no studies evaluated effect of energy-based vessel-sealing-devices on quality of life after sutureless total thyroidectomies. This study aimed to identify any potential differences between two energy-based vessel-sealing-devices (Harmonic Focus, Ligasure LF1212) in patients with benign thyroid disorders who underwent sutureless total thyroidectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Differences in quality of life of patients were evaluated using data obtained by Thy-PRO-39-Tr questionnaire prior to and four-week after surgery. Total and domain-based alterations in quality of life were compared between groups according to energy-based vessel-sealing-devices type (Group L, Group H). Additionally, data including demographics, height, weight, body mass index, neck circumference, sternomental distance were collected. RESULTS Of 1032 patients, 200 were eligible for study, at the end 193 were analysed. There were no differences between groups in terms of age, sex, body mass index, tobacco use. Analysis did not reveal any differences in overall quality of life between groups (P = .42). However, in "eye symptoms" (P < .001) and "cognitive functions" (P = .002) domains, Harmonic provided statistically improved quality of life. Effect on cognitive function was greater in patients of advanced age. CONCLUSIONS Especially in elderly patients with worsening eye conditions and cognitive functions, use of Harmonic may enhance patients' outcome by increasing quality of life in addition to optimizing surgical outcome when compared to Ligasure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akif Enes Arikan
- Department of General Surgery, Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of General Surgery, Acibadem University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Ates Ozyegin
- Department of General Surgery, Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
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Azaria S, Cherian AJ, Gowri M, Thomas S, Gaikwad P, Mj P, Abraham DT. Impact of thyroidectomy on quality of life in benign goitres: results from a prospective cohort study. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2022; 407:1193-1199. [PMID: 34988642 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-021-02391-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Benign thyroid diseases encompass a large spectrum of conditions that are chronic and subtle in nature. A majority of patients choose non-surgical management and continue living their daily lives with subconscious impairment of optimal functioning. We studied the effect of thyroidectomy on the quality of life (QoL) in patients with benign goitres. METHODS A prospective study was conducted on 50 patients between January 2017 and August 2018 using the ThyPRO 39 questionnaire. This is a disease-specific health-related questionnaire administered the day before surgery and 6 months following surgery. Data analysis was performed using EpiData Manager and EpiData Entry Client (v 3.1). RESULTS The mean age of the cohort was 43.30 years ± 11.61, with a female preponderance (34:16). The most common indications for surgery were suspicion of malignancy and compressive symptoms in 34% and 30%, respectively. The most common histopathology reported was nodular/adenomatous hyperplasia (56%). Prior to surgery, the most common domains affected were emotional susceptibility and tiredness. Following surgery, a significant improvement in all domains of the ThyPRO 39 questionnaire were seen except for psychological well-being (p=0.126). In addition, the composite scores significantly improved (p<0.001). Younger age, female gender, and longer duration of goitre were the factors that significantly affected the outcomes in various domains. CONCLUSION Patients with benign goitres have subtle impairment of QoL which showed significant improvement following thyroidectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarna Azaria
- Department of General Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India
| | - Anish Jacob Cherian
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India
| | - Mahasampath Gowri
- Department of Biostatistics, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India
| | - Shawn Thomas
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India
| | - Pranay Gaikwad
- Department of General Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India
| | - Paul Mj
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India
| | - Deepak Thomas Abraham
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632004, India.
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Cramon PK, Bjorner JB, Groenvold M, Boesen VB, Bonnema SJ, Hegedüs L, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Rasmussen ÅK, Watt T. Implementation of thyroid-related patient-reported outcomes in routine clinical practice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1000682. [PMID: 36246917 PMCID: PMC9554589 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1000682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are increasingly used in clinical practice to improve clinical care. Multiple studies show that systematic use of PROs can enhance communication with patients and improve patient satisfaction, symptom management and quality of life. Further, such data can be aggregated to examine health levels for patient groups, improve quality of care, and compare patient outcomes at the institutional, regional or national level. However, there are barriers and challenges that should be handled appropriately to achieve successful implementation of PROs in routine clinical practice. This paper briefly overviews thyroid-related PROs, describes unsolved quality of life issues in benign thyroid diseases, provides examples of routine collection of PROs, and summarizes key points facilitating successful implementation of thyroid-related PROs in routine clinical practice. Finally, the paper touches upon future directions of PRO research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Karkov Cramon
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Bue Bjorner
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- QualityMetric Incorporated, LLC, Johnston, RI, United States
| | - Mogens Groenvold
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Palliative Care Research Unit, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Victor Brun Boesen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steen Joop Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Åse Krogh Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Torquil Watt,
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Cui Z, Ding X, Bian N, Chang X, Wang J, An Y, Liu J, Wang G. Relatively Lower FT3 Levels Are Associated with Impaired Quality of Life in Levothyroxine-Treated Patients with Hashimoto Thyroiditis. Int J Endocrinol 2022; 2022:1918674. [PMID: 35311029 PMCID: PMC8926544 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1918674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) frequently have some complaints despite achieving euthyroidism after levothyroxine (LT4) treatment. This study aimed to investigate the relevant factors affecting the quality of life (QoL) in euthyroid HT patients after LT4 treatment. METHODS In this case-control study, 133 participants with HT were included. They were divided into two groups: 64 euthyroid HT subjects (control group) and 69 HT patients were rendered euthyroid by LT4 treatment (well-controlled group). QoL was measured with the Thyroid-Related Patient-Reported Outcome (ThyPRO-39) questionnaire. RESULTS Both study groups were well matched with respect to gender, age, BMI, euthyroidism, and thyroid antibodies (TPOAb and TGAb). Compared with the control group, the well-controlled group had lower FT3 (P < 0.01) levels. Of note, QoL was impaired on all scales in the well-controlled group. Moreover, ThyPRO-39 scores among the well-controlled group were significantly higher (worse) than the control group in all scales. Regarding the composite scale, its score was related to FT3 (r = -0.176, P=0.043) but not to FT4 and TSH levels. Further logistic regression analysis revealed FT3 was significantly associated with elevated composite QoL [0.128 (0.029-0.577), P < 0.01] after adjustment of potential confounders. CONCLUSION Relatively lower FT3 concentrations, even within the normal reference range, were related to impaired QoL in HT patients treated with LT4. This finding supports the great value of FT3 in clinical decision-making on dose adequacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijun Cui
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ding
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Nannan Bian
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xiaona Chang
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jiaxuan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yu An
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Guang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
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35
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Gallo D, Mortara L, Veronesi G, Cattaneo SAM, Genoni A, Gallazzi M, Peruzzo C, Lasalvia P, Moretto P, Bruno A, Passi A, Pini A, Nauti A, Lavizzari MA, Marinò M, Lanzolla G, Tanda ML, Bartalena L, Piantanida E. Add-On Effect of Selenium and Vitamin D Combined Supplementation in Early Control of Graves' Disease Hyperthyroidism During Methimazole Treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886451. [PMID: 35784564 PMCID: PMC9240752 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Prompt and stable control of hyperthyroidism is fundamental to avoid the detrimental effects of thyroid hormone excess, and antithyroid drugs, mainly methimazole (MMI), represent the first-line treatment for Graves' disease (GD) hyperthyroidism. Decreased serum concentrations of selenium (Se) and calcifediol (25(OH)D, VitD) have been reported in newly diagnosed GD patients in observational studies. Low Se levels might exacerbate oxidative stress by compromising the antioxidant machinery's response to reactive oxygen species, and low VitD levels might hamper the anti-inflammatory immune response. We performed a randomized controlled clinical trial (EudraCT 2017-00505011) to investigate whether Se and cholecalciferol (VitD) addition to MMI is associated with a prompter control of hyperthyroidism. Forty-two consecutive patients with newly-onset GD and marginal/insufficient Se and VitD levels were randomly assigned to treatment with either MMI monotherapy or MMI combined with Se and VitD. Se treatment was withdrawn after 180 days, while the other treatments were continued. Combination therapy resulted in a significantly greater reduction in serum FT4 concentration at 45 days (-37.9 pg/ml, CI 95%, -43.7 to -32.2 pg/ml) and 180 days (-36.5 pg/ml, CI 95%, -42 to -30.9 pg/ml) compared to MMI monotherapy (respectively: -25.7 pg/ml, CI 95%, -31.6 to -19.7 pg/ml and -22.9 pg/ml, CI 95%, -28 to -17.3 pg/ml, p 0.002). Data at 270 days confirmed this trend (-37.8 pg/ml, CI 95%, -43.6 to -32.1 pg/ml vs -24.4 pg/ml, CI 95%, -30.3 to -18.4 pg/ml). The quality of life (QoL) score was investigated by the validated "Thyroid-related Patient-Reported Outcome" questionnaire (ThyPRO). ThyPRO composite score showed a greater improvement in the intervention group at 45 days (-14.6, CI 95%, -18.8 to -10.4), 180 (-9, CI 95%, -13.9 to -4.2) and 270 days (-14.3, CI 95%, -19.5 to -9.1) compared to MMI group (respectively, -5.2, CI 95%, -9.5 to -1; -5.4, CI 95%, -10.6 to -0.2 and -3.5, CI 95%, -9 to -2.1, p 0-6 months and 6-9 months <0.05). Our results suggest that reaching optimal Se and VitD levels increases the early efficacy of MMI treatment when Se and VitD levels are suboptimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Gallo
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- *Correspondence: Eliana Piantanida, ; Daniela Gallo,
| | - Lorenzo Mortara
- Immunology and General Pathology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giovanni Veronesi
- Research Center in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Simona AM Cattaneo
- Immuno-hematology and Transfusion Medicine, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Angelo Genoni
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Matteo Gallazzi
- Immunology and General Pathology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Carlo Peruzzo
- Occupational, Preventive and Toxicology Unit, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Lasalvia
- Research Center in Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (EPIMED), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Paola Moretto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Antonino Bruno
- Immunology and General Pathology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Passi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemical Analysis, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Andrea Pini
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemical Analysis, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Andrea Nauti
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemical Analysis, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Michele Marinò
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Unit II, University of Pisa and University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Lanzolla
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Unit II, University of Pisa and University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Tanda
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Luigi Bartalena
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
| | - Eliana Piantanida
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) dei Sette Laghi, Varese, Italy
- *Correspondence: Eliana Piantanida, ; Daniela Gallo,
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Ettleson MD, Papaleontiou M. Evaluating health outcomes in the treatment of hypothyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1026262. [PMID: 36329885 PMCID: PMC9623066 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1026262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical hypothyroidism is defined by the inadequate production of thyroid hormone from the thyroid gland to maintain normal organ system functions. For nearly all patients with clinical hypothyroidism, lifelong treatment with thyroid hormone replacement is required. The primary goal of treatment is to provide the appropriate daily dose of thyroid hormone to restore normal thyroid function for each individual patient. In current clinical practice, normalization of thyrotropin (TSH) level is the primary measure of effectiveness of treatment, however the use of a single biomarker to define adequate thyroid hormone replacement is being reevaluated. The assessment of clinical health outcomes and patient-reported outcomes (PROs), often within the context of intensity of treatment as defined by thyroid function tests (i.e., undertreatment, appropriate treatment, or overtreatment), may play a role in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the prominent health outcomes literature in patients with treated hypothyroidism. To date, overall mortality, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, bone health and cognitive function have been evaluated as endpoints in clinical outcomes studies in patients with treated hypothyroidism. More recent investigations have sought to establish the relationships between these end results and thyroid function during the treatment course. In addition to clinical event outcomes, patient-reported quality of life (QoL) has also been considered in the assessment of adequacy of hypothyroidism treatment. From a health care quality perspective, treatment of hypothyroidism should be evaluated not just on its effectiveness for the individual patients but also to the extent to which patients of different sociodemographic groups are treated equally. Ultimately, more research is needed to explore differences in health outcomes between different sociodemographic groups with hypothyroidism. Future prospective studies of treated hypothyroidism that integrate biochemical testing, PROs, and end result clinical outcomes could provide a more complete picture into the effectiveness of treatment of hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Ettleson
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Matthew D. Ettleson,
| | - Maria Papaleontiou
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes and Institute of Gerontology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Orloff LA, Noel JE, Stack BC, Russell MD, Angelos P, Baek JH, Brumund KT, Chiang FY, Cunnane MB, Davies L, Frasoldati A, Feng AY, Hegedüs L, Iwata AJ, Kandil E, Kuo J, Lombardi C, Lupo M, Maia AL, McIver B, Na DG, Novizio R, Papini E, Patel KN, Rangel L, Russell JO, Shin J, Shindo M, Shonka DC, Karcioglu AS, Sinclair C, Singer M, Spiezia S, Steck JH, Steward D, Tae K, Tolley N, Valcavi R, Tufano RP, Tuttle RM, Volpi E, Wu CW, Abdelhamid Ahmed AH, Randolph GW. Radiofrequency ablation and related ultrasound-guided ablation technologies for treatment of benign and malignant thyroid disease: An international multidisciplinary consensus statement of the American Head and Neck Society Endocrine Surgery Section with the Asia Pacific Society of Thyroid Surgery, Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, British Association of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgeons, European Thyroid Association, Italian Society of Endocrine Surgery Units, Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology, Latin American Thyroid Society, and Thyroid Nodules Therapies Association. Head Neck 2021; 44:633-660. [PMID: 34939714 DOI: 10.1002/hed.26960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of ultrasound-guided ablation procedures to treat both benign and malignant thyroid conditions is gaining increasing interest. This document has been developed as an international interdisciplinary evidence-based statement with a primary focus on radiofrequency ablation and is intended to serve as a manual for best practice application of ablation technologies. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was conducted to guide statement development and generation of best practice recommendations. Modified Delphi method was applied to assess whether statements met consensus among the entire author panel. RESULTS A review of the current state of ultrasound-guided ablation procedures for the treatment of benign and malignant thyroid conditions is presented. Eighteen best practice recommendations in topic areas of preprocedural evaluation, technique, postprocedural management, efficacy, potential complications, and implementation are provided. CONCLUSIONS As ultrasound-guided ablation procedures are increasingly utilized in benign and malignant thyroid disease, evidence-based and thoughtful application of best practices is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Orloff
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Julia E Noel
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Brendan C Stack
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Marika D Russell
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, San Francisco School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Peter Angelos
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jung Hwan Baek
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kevin T Brumund
- Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Feng-Yu Chiang
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, E-Da Hospital, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mary Beth Cunnane
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Louise Davies
- The Section of Otolaryngology, The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Andrea Frasoldati
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova IRCCS-ASL, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Anne Y Feng
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ayaka J Iwata
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, California, USA
| | - Emad Kandil
- Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jennifer Kuo
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Celestino Lombardi
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mark Lupo
- Thyroid & Endocrine Center of Florida, Sarasota, Florida, USA
| | - Ana Luiza Maia
- Unidade de Tireoide, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Bryan McIver
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Dong Gyu Na
- Department of Radiology, Gangneung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Gangneung, South Korea
| | | | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Kepal N Patel
- Department of Surgery, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Leonardo Rangel
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janiero, Brazil
| | - Jonathon O Russell
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer Shin
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maisie Shindo
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - David C Shonka
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Amanda S Karcioglu
- Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, Illinois, USA.,Clinician Educator, Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Catherine Sinclair
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mount Sinai West Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michael Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Stefano Spiezia
- Endocrine Surgery, Ospedale del Mare, ASL NA1 Centro, Naples, Italy
| | - Jose Higino Steck
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - David Steward
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Kyung Tae
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Neil Tolley
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Ralph P Tufano
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - R Michael Tuttle
- Endocrine Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Erivelto Volpi
- Oncology Center, Oswaldo Cruz German Hospital, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Che Wei Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Amr H Abdelhamid Ahmed
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Thyroid and Parathyroid Endocrine Surgery, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gregory W Randolph
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Thyroid and Parathyroid Endocrine Surgery, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Tabriz N, Gloy K, Schantzen A, Fried D, Weyhe D, Uslar V. Validity and reliability of the German version of the shortened thyroid-specific quality of life questionnaire (ThyPRO-39de). Endocr Connect 2021; 10:1065-1072. [PMID: 34355699 PMCID: PMC8428020 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Validation of a German version of the ThyPRO-39 questionnaire for quality of life (QoL) in patients with benign thyroid diseases. DESIGN Internal consistency, retest reliability, and validity were to be assessed in a test-retest study. METHODS The ThyPRO-39 was translated based on standard methodology. A sample of 98 patients with benign thyroid diseases was tested with the ThyPRO-39de and the generic EuroQol 5D-5L. Forty-four patients with stable symptoms after 2 weeks formed the repeated measures sample. Cronbach's alpha was calculated for the ThyPRO-39de composite score and for each disease-specific scale. Intraclass correlations between the original and the repeated measures sample were calculated for each scale as well as Pearson correlations between various ThyPRO scales and the EuroQol. T-tests were used to test for differences in the goiter and hyperthyroid symptom scales between relevant patient groups and other patients. RESULTS Internal consistency was between satisfactory and good, except for two scales (tiredness and cosmetic complaints/appearance). The test-retest correlation was between 0.62 and 0.8 for most scales, but below 0.5 for two scales (tiredness and impaired social life). There were significant correlations between the EuroQol index score and most aspects of the ThyPRO-39de. Only the hyperthyroid symptoms scale was specific for the relevant patient group (Graves' disease). CONCLUSION The ThyPRO-39de may be recommended for use in clinical and research settings, especially with regards to the composite score. However, the underlying thyroid disease should always be kept in mind when interpreting the test results. A larger sample would be needed to implement further improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Tabriz
- University Hospital for Visceral Surgery, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Kilian Gloy
- University Hospital for Visceral Surgery, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Astrid Schantzen
- University Hospital for Visceral Surgery, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Dennis Fried
- University Hospital for Visceral Surgery, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Dirk Weyhe
- University Hospital for Visceral Surgery, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Verena Uslar
- University Hospital for Visceral Surgery, Pius-Hospital Oldenburg, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
- Correspondence should be addressed to V Uslar:
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Tuzil J, Bartakova J, Watt T, Dolezal T. Health-related quality of life in women with autoimmune thyroid disease during pregnancy and postpartum: systematic review including 321,850 pregnancies. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2021; 21:1179-1193. [PMID: 34120552 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2021.1941882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Utilities of the general population or expert estimates have been used for all published cost-effectiveness analyses of screening for thyroid disorders in pregnancy. METHODS A systematic review CRD42019120897 of studies with patient-reported outcomes (PRO) and laboratory evidence of thyroid function/autoimmunity was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Central, EconLit, SocIndex, DARE, NHS EEDS, Annual Reviews, and CINAHL. Quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tool. RESULTS Of 664 abstracts screened, we analyzed 97 full texts. All studies describing the impact of thyroid disease on the generic QoL excluded pregnant and postpartum women. 21 reports of acceptable quality (321,850 pregnancies) determined depression and anxiety with validated tools and/or reported subjective symptoms. During pregnancy, contradictory conclusions were published on the impact of thyroid disease on PRO. Postpartum, antithyroid antibodies coincide with alexithymia and depression, postpartum thyroiditis negatively impacts mood. No conclusion could be drawn on the impact of thyroid hormonal levels. CONCLUSIONS The generic QoL in autoimmune thyroid disease during pregnancy has never been described, which represents an obstacle for the construction of economic models. We found contradictory information on the impact of thyroid disease on depression, anxiety, and specific symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Tuzil
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Health Economics and Technology Assessment o.p.s (iHETA), Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Bartakova
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tomas Dolezal
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology Assessment o.p.s (iHETA), Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Schumm MA, Nguyen DT, Kim J, Tseng CH, Chow AY, Shen N, Livhits MJ. Longitudinal Assessment of Quality of Life Following Molecular Testing for Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 28:8872-8881. [PMID: 34292427 PMCID: PMC8591007 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-10375-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Molecular testing can refine the risk of malignancy in cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules and can reduce the need for diagnostic thyroidectomy. However, quality of life (QOL) in patients mananged with molecular testing is not well studied. Objective We aimed to assess the QOL of patients undergoing surveillance after a benign molecular test result, or thyroidectomy after a suspicious molecular test result. Methods This prospective longitudinal follow-up of the Effectiveness of Molecular Testing Techniques for Diagnosis of Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules randomized trial utilized the Thyroid-Related Patient-Reported Outcome, 39-item version (ThyPro-39) to assess the QOL of patients with indeterminate cytology on thyroid fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy. All patients underwent molecular testing at the time of initial FNA. A mixed-effect model was used to determine changes in QOL over time. Results Of 252 eligible patients, 174 completed the assessment (69% response rate). Molecular test results included 72% (n = 124) benign and 28% (n = 50) suspicious. ThyPro-39 scores of benign molecular test patients were unchanged from baseline (following initial FNA and molecular test results) to 18 months of ultrasound surveillance. Baseline symptoms of goiter, anxiety, and depression were more severe for patients with suspicious compared with benign molecular test results. At a median of 8 months after thyroidectomy, suspicious molecular test patients reported improved symptoms of goiter, anxiety, and depression. Conclusion A benign molecular test provides sustained QOL throughout ultrasound surveillance, without worsening anxiety or depression relating to the risk of malignancy. Definitive surgery results in improvement of QOL in patients with suspicious molecular tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max A Schumm
- Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Ave. 72-227 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Dalena T Nguyen
- Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Ave. 72-227 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jiyoon Kim
- Department of Biostatistics, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chi-Hong Tseng
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Amy Y Chow
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Na Shen
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Masha J Livhits
- Section of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Ave. 72-227 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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Liew H, Watt T, Nan L, Tan AWK, Chan YH, Chew DEK, Dalan R. Psychometric properties of the thyroid-specific quality of life questionnaire ThyPRO in Singaporean patients with Graves' disease. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2021; 5:54. [PMID: 34236563 PMCID: PMC8266927 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-021-00309-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It results in accelerated tissue metabolism with multi-organ involvement ranging from cardiovascular to neuropsychological function. This results in a negative impact on the quality of life (QOL) of the individual patient. We aim to evaluate the psychometric properties of ThyPRO, a Thyroid-related Patient Reported Outcome questionnaire, and validate its use in our multi-ethnic Asian patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism. METHODS Forty-seven consecutive Graves' hyperthyroidism patients answered the ThyPRO questionnaire at baseline and at 4 months after treatment initiation. Data were recorded for thyroid related symptoms and signs, thyroid function tests and thyroid volume. We analyzed the internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha, construct validity by evaluating relationship between clinical variables and ThyPRO scales, ceiling and floor effects, and responsiveness of ThyPRO to treatment based on Cohen's effect size. RESULTS Correlations between individual scale scores and free thyroxine concentrations were moderate and statistically significant: 0.21-0.64 (p < 0.05). There was high internal consistency between the items in this instrument, Cronbach's alpha > 0.7 for all scales. ThyPRO was responsive to the changes in QOL after treatment (Effect Size: 0.20-0.77) in 9 of the 14 scales including the hyperthyroid symptoms and psychosocial scales (Tiredness, Cognitive complaints, Anxiety, Emotional susceptibility, Impact on Social, Daily and Sex life). CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that ThyPRO has satisfactory measurement properties in hyperthyroid Graves' disease patients in Singapore population with the potential to complement clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Liew
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore.
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Medical Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luo Nan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alvin W K Tan
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel Ek Kwang Chew
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rinkoo Dalan
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Predictors of Improvement in Quality of Life When Treating Hypothyroidism. J Thyroid Res 2021; 2021:5577217. [PMID: 34194721 PMCID: PMC8214493 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5577217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Primary hypothyroidism is characterized by reduced quality of life (QoL). Although thyrotropin (TSH) is utilized as the primary indicator of thyroid disease and treatment adequacy, no simple correlation between QoL and TSH has been shown. This study aimed to investigate changes in clinically relevant predictors during initiation of levothyroxine (L-T4) therapy and their ability to predict improvement in QoL. Method Quality of life was measured in patients with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism, during the initial 12 months of L-T4 therapy, by the thyroid-related patient-reported outcome questionnaire, ThyPRO-39. The main outcome measures were the Composite QoL scale and the Tiredness and Emotional Susceptibility subscales (0–100, higher scores worse). Clinical variables (resting energy expenditure (REE), body composition, thyroid function, L-T4 dose, and cognitive function tests) were evaluated as predictors of improvement in QoL by univariate and multiple regression analysis. Results Thirty-seven hypothyroid patients with a baseline median TSH of 30 mU/l and a median QoL score of 29 were included. After twelve months of L-T4 treatment, the ThyPRO-39 QoL score had significantly improved to a median score of 14, while REE per kg fat-free mass (FFM) increased significantly from a mean of 26.5 to 28.7 kcal/day/kg (p < 0.001). Change in ThyPRO-39 was not associated with a change in REE/FFM (unstandardized coefficient (USC): 0.09 with confidence interval (CI): −1.93 to 2.11, p=0.93) but was positively predicted by baseline body mass index (BMI) (USC: 1.54 with CI: 0.59 to 2.49, (p=0.002), without association with weight loss (USC: 0.33 with CI: −1.21 to 1.27, p=0.96). Conclusion Improvement in QoL as measured by ThyPRO-39 after initiation of L-T4 therapy for hypothyroidism was not associated with changes in REE. High baseline BMI, but not weight loss during therapy, was associated with improvement in QoL. This trail is registered with www.Clinicaltrials.gov (registration no. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02891668).
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Martino G, Caputo A, Vicario CM, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Watt T, Quattropani MC, Benvenga S, Vita R. Alexithymia, Emotional Distress, and Perceived Quality of Life in Patients With Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. Front Psychol 2021; 12:667237. [PMID: 34045997 PMCID: PMC8144453 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.667237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Emotion-processing impairment represents a risk factor for the development of somatic illness, affecting negatively both health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and disease management in several chronic diseases. The present pilot study aims at (i) investigating the associations between alexithymia and depression, anxiety, and HRQoL in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT); (ii) examining the association between these three psychological conditions together with HRQoL, and thyroid autoantibodies status as well as thyroid echotexture in patients with HT; and (iii) comparing the intensity of all these clinical psychological features in patients with HT versus controls. Twenty-one patients with serologically or ultrasonographically verified HT and 16 controls with non-toxic goiter or postsurgical hypothyroidism were recruited for this study. Serum thyrotropin (TSH) and free thyroxine, as well as thyroid autoantibodies (thyroglobulin antibodies and thyroid peroxidase antibodies), were assayed. Alexithymia, depression, anxiety, and HRQoL were assessed with Toronto Alexithymia Scale; Beck Depression Inventory, second edition; Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale; and Health Survey Short-Form 36, respectively. A negative relationship between the difficulty to describe feelings and the cognitive component of depression was found (r = -0.46, p = 0.04). Besides, patients with seronegative HT had lower somatic anxiety than patients with HT who tested positive (r = -0.68, p = 0.01 and r = -0.59, p = 0.04, respectively). Besides, no statistically significant difference was found between patients with HT and controls with regard to somatic anxiety. The present study suggests the relevance of alexithymia in patients suffering from HT, which may be intertwined with a possible state of underreported depression that is mainly expressed through physical complaints. Promoting the capability to describe and communicate feelings could contribute to psychological elaboration and coping with the disease and, consequently, to the improvement of self-management and perceived HRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Martino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Caputo
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelo M. Vicario
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, Psychological, Pedagogical and Cultural Studies, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Medical Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria C. Quattropani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women’s Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology and Women’s Endocrine Health, University Hospital, AOU Policlinico “G. Martino,” Messina, Italy
| | - Roberto Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Jonklaas J, Bianco AC, Cappola AR, Celi FS, Fliers E, Heuer H, McAninch EA, Moeller LC, Nygaard B, Sawka AM, Watt T, Dayan CM. Evidence-Based Use of Levothyroxine/Liothyronine Combinations in Treating Hypothyroidism: A Consensus Document. Eur Thyroid J 2021; 10:10-38. [PMID: 33777817 PMCID: PMC7983670 DOI: 10.1159/000512970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fourteen clinical trials have not shown a consistent benefit of combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) and liothyronine (LT3). Despite the publication of these trials, combination therapy is widely used and patients reporting benefit continue to generate patient and physician interest in this area. Recent scientific developments may provide insight into this inconsistency and guide future studies. METHODS The American Thyroid Association (ATA), British Thyroid Association (BTA), and European Thyroid Association (ETA) held a joint conference on November 3, 2019 (live-streamed between Chicago and London) to review new basic science and clinical evidence regarding combination therapy with presentations and input from 12 content experts. After the presentations, the material was synthesized and used to develop Summary Statements of the current state of knowledge. After review and revision of the material and Summary Statements, there was agreement that there was equipoise for a new clinical trial of combination therapy. Consensus Statements encapsulating the implications of the material discussed with respect to the design of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy were generated. Authors voted upon the Consensus Statements. Iterative changes were made in several rounds of voting and after comments from ATA/BTA/ETA members. RESULTS Of 34 Consensus Statements available for voting, 28 received at least 75% agreement, with 13 receiving 100% agreement. Those with 100% agreement included studies being powered to study the effect of deiodinase and thyroid hormone transporter polymorphisms on study outcomes, inclusion of patients dissatisfied with their current therapy and requiring at least 1.2 µg/kg of LT4 daily, use of twice daily LT3 or preferably a slow-release preparation if available, use of patient-reported outcomes as a primary outcome (measured by a tool with both relevant content validity and responsiveness) and patient preference as a secondary outcome, and utilization of a randomized placebo-controlled adequately powered double-blinded parallel design. The remaining statements are presented as potential additional considerations. DISCUSSION This article summarizes the areas discussed and presents Consensus Statements to guide development of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy. The results of such redesigned trials are expected to be of benefit to patients and of value to inform future thyroid hormone replacement clinical practice guidelines treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- *Jacqueline Jonklaas, Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road, NW, Washington, DC 20007 (USA),
| | - Antonio C. Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anne R. Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francesco S. Celi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Heike Heuer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Lars C. Moeller
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Birte Nygaard
- Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospitals, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anna M. Sawka
- Division of Endocrinology, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Colin M. Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- **Colin M. Dayan, Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, C2 Link, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN (UK),
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Nordqvist SF, Boesen VB, Rasmussen ÅK, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Hegedüs L, Bonnema SJ, Cramon PK, Watt T, Groenvold M, Bjorner JB. Determining minimal important change for the thyroid-related quality of life questionnaire ThyPRO. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:316-324. [PMID: 33617467 PMCID: PMC8052573 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE ThyPRO is the standard thyroid patient-reported outcome (PRO). The change in scores that patients perceive as important remains to be ascertained. The purpose of this study was to determine values for minimal important change (MIC) for ThyPRO. METHODS A total of 435 patients treated for benign thyroid diseases completed ThyPRO at baseline and 6 weeks following treatment initiation. At 6 weeks follow-up, patients also completed Global Rating of Change items. For each 0-100 scale, two MIC values were identified: An MIC for groups, using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve method and an MIC for individual patients, using the Reliable Change Index. RESULTS ROC analyses provided group-MIC estimates of 6.3-14.3 (score range 0-100). Evaluation of area under the curve (AUC) supported the robustness for 9 of 14 scales (AUC > 0.7). Reliable Change Index estimates of individual-MIC were 8.0-21.1. For all scales but two, the individual-MIC values were larger than the group-MIC values. CONCLUSIONS Interpretability of ThyPRO was improved by the establishment of MIC values, which was 6.3-14.3 for groups and 8.0-21.1 for individuals. Thus, estimates of which changes are clinically relevant, are now available for future studies. We recommend using MIC values found by ROC analyses to evaluate changes in groups of patients, whereas MIC values identified by a dual criterion, including the reliability of changes, should be used for individual patients, for example, to identify individual responders in clinical studies or practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Flora Nordqvist
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Victor Brun Boesen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Åse Krogh Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Steen Joop Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Per Karkov Cramon
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Internal Medicine, Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence should be addressed to T Watt:
| | - Mogens Groenvold
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Bue Bjorner
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- QualityMetric Incorporated, LLC, Johnston, Rhode Island, USA
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Jonklaas J, Bianco AC, Cappola AR, Celi FS, Fliers E, Heuer H, McAninch EA, Moeller LC, Nygaard B, Sawka AM, Watt T, Dayan CM. Evidence-Based Use of Levothyroxine/Liothyronine Combinations in Treating Hypothyroidism: A Consensus Document. Thyroid 2021; 31:156-182. [PMID: 33276704 PMCID: PMC8035928 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2020.0720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Fourteen clinical trials have not shown a consistent benefit of combination therapy with levothyroxine (LT4) and liothyronine (LT3). Despite the publication of these trials, combination therapy is widely used and patients reporting benefit continue to generate patient and physician interest in this area. Recent scientific developments may provide insight into this inconsistency and guide future studies. Methods: The American Thyroid Association (ATA), British Thyroid Association (BTA), and European Thyroid Association (ETA) held a joint conference on November 3, 2019 (live-streamed between Chicago and London) to review new basic science and clinical evidence regarding combination therapy with presentations and input from 12 content experts. After the presentations, the material was synthesized and used to develop Summary Statements of the current state of knowledge. After review and revision of the material and Summary Statements, there was agreement that there was equipoise for a new clinical trial of combination therapy. Consensus Statements encapsulating the implications of the material discussed with respect to the design of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy were generated. Authors voted upon the Consensus Statements. Iterative changes were made in several rounds of voting and after comments from ATA/BTA/ETA members. Results: Of 34 Consensus Statements available for voting, 28 received at least 75% agreement, with 13 receiving 100% agreement. Those with 100% agreement included studies being powered to study the effect of deiodinase and thyroid hormone transporter polymorphisms on study outcomes, inclusion of patients dissatisfied with their current therapy and requiring at least 1.2 μg/kg of LT4 daily, use of twice daily LT3 or preferably a slow-release preparation if available, use of patient-reported outcomes as a primary outcome (measured by a tool with both relevant content validity and responsiveness) and patient preference as a secondary outcome, and utilization of a randomized placebo-controlled adequately powered double-blinded parallel design. The remaining statements are presented as potential additional considerations. Discussion: This article summarizes the areas discussed and presents Consensus Statements to guide development of future clinical trials of LT4/LT3 combination therapy. The results of such redesigned trials are expected to be of benefit to patients and of value to inform future thyroid hormone replacement clinical practice guidelines treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Address correspondence to: Jacqueline Jonklaas, MD, PhD, Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road, NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Antonio C. Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anne R. Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francesco S. Celi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Heike Heuer
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Lars C. Moeller
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Birte Nygaard
- Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department Internal Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospitals, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anna M. Sawka
- Division of Endocrinology, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Colin M. Dayan
- Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Address correspondence to: Colin M. Dayan, MD, PhD, Thyroid Research Group, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, C2 Link, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
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Zheng D, Liao H, Chen S, Liu X, Mao C, Zhang C, Meng M, Wang Z, Wang Y, Jiang Q, Xue Y, Zhou L, Chen Y. Elevated Levels of Circulating Biomarkers Related to Leaky Gut Syndrome and Bacterial Translocation Are Associated With Graves' Disease. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:796212. [PMID: 34975767 PMCID: PMC8716831 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.796212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of studies have found dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota in patients with Graves' disease (GD). The intestinal epithelial barrier serves as the first line of defense, protecting the immune system from excessive stimulation of microbiota and toxins. Most autoimmune diseases are associated with a gut barrier dysfunction (leaky gut) which allows bacterial translocation. However, to date, potential correlations between intestinal barrier dysfunction and GD have not been explored. METHODS Serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS), intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP), zonulin, D-lactate, and diamine oxidase (DAO) were measured to assess barrier integrity in 91 patients with GD (61 initial GD and 30 euthyroid GD) and 44 healthy controls. The quality of life (QOL) of patients with GD was assessed using the thyroid-specific patient-reported outcome (ThyPRO-39) questionnaire. RESULTS The serum levels of LPS, I-FABP, zonulin, and D-lactate were significantly higher in patients with initial GD than in healthy controls. Logistic regression analysis revealed that zonulin and D-lactate were independently associated with risk for GD and circulating zonulin could effectively distinguish patients with initial GD from healthy controls. Correlation analyses showed that I-FABP, LPS, and D-lactate were positively associated with FT4 and negatively associated with TSH. In addition, circulating LPS, zonulin, and D-lactate levels were all independent predictors of TRAb levels. Moreover, higher circulating LPS levels in patients with GD were associated with more severe hyperthyroidism (higher concentrations of FT3, FT4, and TRAb and lower TSH concentrations) and worse scores of hyperthyroid and eye symptoms. CONCLUSION Patients with initial GD show a disrupted intestinal barrier, characterized by elevated levels of leaky gut biomarkers. Increased intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation were associated with TRAb levels and hyperthyroidism in GD. Further research is required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dekai Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Integrative Clinical Center of Microecology, Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huimin Liao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuze Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Integrative Clinical Center of Microecology, Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuying Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuyin Mao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cangui Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Meng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qinrui Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaoming Xue
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ye Chen, ; Lin Zhou,
| | - Ye Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Gastroenterology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Integrative Clinical Center of Microecology, Department of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ye Chen, ; Lin Zhou,
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Bartalena L, Wiersinga WM. Proposal for Standardization of Primary and Secondary Outcomes in Patients with Active, Moderate-to-Severe Graves' Orbitopathy. Eur Thyroid J 2020; 9:3-16. [PMID: 33511081 PMCID: PMC7802435 DOI: 10.1159/000510700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Standardization of treatment outcomes in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for active, moderate-to-severe Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is needed to make results of different RCTs comparable and to draw sound conclusions on the efficacy of a given treatment. Both subjective patient-reported outcome (PRO) and objective clinician-reported outcome (CRO) are important in this regard. In this paper, it is proposed that primary PRO should be the evaluation of treatment-related changes in the quality of life by the use of a validated and disease-specific questionnaire (GO-QoL). The proposed primary CRO is a revised composite index, which includes only objective items and provides an overall assessment of the effects of treatment. Secondary outcomes should also be provided in RCTs to show the effects of treatment on individual features of GO, as well on persistence of activity (by the 7-item Clinical Activity Score), safety, relapses of GO, need for subsequent medical and/or surgical treatments, and other indicators (orbital volume, cytokines, TSH receptor antibody levels). Assessment of the overall response to treatment by primary and secondary outcomes should be made 3 months after treatment completion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Bartalena
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- *Luigi Bartalena, Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri, 57, IT–21100 Varese (Italy), , or, Wilmar M. Wiersinga, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, NL–1105AZ Amsterdam (The Netherlands),
| | - Wilmar M. Wiersinga
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Al Quran T, Bataineh Z, Al-Mistarehi AH, Okour A, Beni Yonis O, Khassawneh A, AbuAwwad R, Al Qura'an A. Quality of life among patients on levothyroxine: A cross-sectional study. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2020; 60:182-187. [PMID: 33163174 PMCID: PMC7607046 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2020.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Thyroid disorders affect the life quality of patients in various aspects. The present work aims at investigating the effect of thyroid hormonal status on the quality of life (QoL) among patients receiving Levothyroxine at the level of primary healthcare. Methods All patients receiving Levothyroxine at an academic primary healthcare center were included in a cross-sectional evaluation. QoL was measured by the Thyroid-Related Patient-Reported Outcome questionnaire (ThyPRO). The conducted analysis was based on the last thyroid hormones level during the last year and questionnaire scores where higher scores indicated lower QoL. Results We included 127 patients; all domains of their QoL questionnaire were affected. The highest scored domain of the ThyPRO was tiredness, while the least was goiter symptoms. An association between the affected QoL and thyroid hormones could not be built. Certain domains of the ThyPRO were influenced by the existence of comorbid diseases. Conclusions QoL was impacted in patients receiving Levothyroxine, regardless of hormonal status. Management of comorbid diseases and patients' concerns are advised to be taken into consideration to achieve a satisfying treatment. We highly recommend the integration of health life quality assessments in primary health care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thekraiat Al Quran
- Department of Public Health and Family medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ziad Bataineh
- Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Abdel-Hameed Al-Mistarehi
- Department of Public Health and Family medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Abdulhakeem Okour
- Department of Public Health and Family medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Othman Beni Yonis
- Department of Public Health and Family medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Adi Khassawneh
- Department of Public Health and Family medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rana AbuAwwad
- Department of Public Health and Family medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Anood Al Qura'an
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jordanian Royal Medical Services, Amman, Jordan
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Chew CR, Chin SL, Lam T, Drosdowsky A, Chan STF, Chin-Lenn L. How does thyroidectomy for benign thyroid disease impact upon quality of life? A prospective study. ANZ J Surg 2020; 90:E177-E182. [PMID: 32975031 DOI: 10.1111/ans.16342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choosing which patients to recommend surgery for benign thyroid conditions can be difficult due to the subjective nature of compressive thyroid and hormonal symptoms. The aim of this prospective study was to analyse changes in quality of life (QOL) following thyroid surgery using a validated disease-specific assessment tool, the thyroid-related patient-reported outcome (ThyPRO) questionnaire. METHODS Participants undergoing elective thyroid surgery for benign conditions were recruited. Patient demographics and clinical data were collected. ThyPRO consists of 85 questions grouped into 13 physical, mental and social symptom domains. Patients completed a ThyPRO questionnaire pre-operatively and at 6 weeks and 6 months post-operatively. ThyPRO items were scored according to protocol to produce 13 subscales. Repeated measures linear models with no random effects were performed using data for each outcome. RESULTS Results were available for a total of 72 patients. The sample was predominately female (n = 63, 88%) with average age 49.8 years. The majority of patients underwent surgery for multi-nodular goitre. At 6 weeks post-operatively, significant improvement was demonstrated in the goitre, hypothyroid, hyperthyroid and anxiety symptom domains. At 6 months post-operatively, significant improvement was demonstrated in all but four domains. No domains demonstrated significant increase in impairment post-operatively. CONCLUSION Patients had significant improvement in nine of 13 symptom domains following surgery. Patients did not experience a negative impact on QOL following surgery. Further studies with larger patient cohorts may be able to identify potential pre-operative predictive factors for a post-operative improvement in QOL for benign thyroid disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn R Chew
- Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Western Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Synn Lynn Chin
- Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Western Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracey Lam
- Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Western Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allison Drosdowsky
- Department of Cancer Experiences Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven T F Chan
- Department of Surgery, North West Academic Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura Chin-Lenn
- Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Western Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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