HYPOFUNCTION OF THE THYROID GLAND, DUE TO PROLONGED AND EXCESSIVE INTAKE OF POTASSIUM IODIDE

Abstract

ABSTRACT Five patients are reported, who developed various degrees of thyroid hypofunction and/or goitre while taking iodide-containing mixtures for bronchial asthma. After stopping the iodide treatment, their thyroid condition returned to normal. The clinical features of the condition are described. Particular attention has been paid to the factors responsible for the development of thyroid hypofunction. Most important among these was the prolonged, regular and high intake of iodides. It is concluded that patients using iodide-containing medication should interrupt the intake for 2–4 weeks at a time, several times a year. The mechanism by which iodine depresses the function of the thyroid gland is discussed.