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Radioiodine Treatment of Graves' Disease
An Assessment of Its Potential Risks
- GORDON D. GRAHAM, M.D., MAJ; and
- KENNETH D. BURMAN, M.D., COL
Abstract
Concern about the side effects of radiation exposure has deterred physicians from using radioiodine treatment for Graves' disease, although the efficacy and safety of this treatment have been established in the 35 years since its introduction. In that time, no significant side effects have been discovered. We believe iodine-131 should be considered the treatment of choice in most patients with Graves' disease. This article reviews the current understanding of the risks in radioiodine treatment of Graves' disease, including the risks for teratogenicity, genetic damage, carcinogenesis, and cellular dysfunction.
- carcinogenesis
- exophthalmic goiter
- Graves' disease
- hyperthyroidism
- hypothyroidism
- iodine-131
- iodine radioisotopes
- osteoporosis
- radiation effects
- radiation-induced abnormalities
- radiation-induced leukemia
- radiation-induced neoplasms
- radiation genetics
Article and Author Information
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▸From the Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine-Metabolic Services, Departments of Radiology, Medicine, and Clinical Investigation, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C.; and Department of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland.
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▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to Kenneth D. Burman, M.D.; Endocrinology Service, Clinic 7D, Walter Reed Army Medical Center; Washington, DC 20307-5001.
