AN EVALUATION OF RADIOACTIVE IODINE IN THE TREATMENT OF HYPERTHYROIDISM*†

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Abstract
The management of 100 patients with hyperthyroidism treated with I131 is reported. Patients selected for treatment were limited to those with recurrent hyperthyroidism, hyperthyroidism with complications such as severe heart disease, propylthiouracil failures who did not desire surgery, and uncomplicated hyperthyroidism in the older age group. Dosage was based on the estimated wt. of the thyroid gland, 100 microcuries/g. of tissue being given to patients with diffuse goiters and slightly more to those with nodular goiters. Patients were followed at intervals of 2 mos. until an euthyroid state was obtained. A maximum effect was frequently not fully apparent for 3-4 mos. All patients responded to therapy. 88 had a satisfactory remission, 9 developed hypothyroidism and 3 became myxedematous. In general, it was noted that patients with nodular goiters required larger amts. of I131 and longer periods of time to achieve the normal state than those with diffuse goiters. In patients retaining solitary nodules following therapy surgery was advised. All patients were followed for at least 2 mos. after return to an euthyroid state. 49% were followed for 6 mos. or longer. Except for the occurrence of hypothyroidism no complications were observed.

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