TREATMENT OF NON-TOXIC GOITRE WITH THYROID PREPARATIONS

Abstract

ABSTRACT Treatment with a thyroid preparation was used in 75 cases of non-toxic goitre. In 63 cases there was nodular goitre in 12 diffuse goitre. The observation period varied from 3 to 42 months. The size of the goitre decreased in 50 cases (68 per cent) of which 40 had a nodular goitre and 10 a diffuse goitre. In the 63 cases with a nodular goitre the size of the nodules decreased in 39 cases and the nodules disappeared completely in 2 cases (65 per cent). In 5 cases (7 per cent) there was no change in the size of the thyroid or the nodules. Temporary factitious hyperthyroidism appeared in 7 cases but subsided rapidly after adjustment of the dose. In one case an endogenous hyperthyroidism evidently developed, probably owing to initial latent hyperthyroidism. Treatment of non-toxic goitre with thyroid preparations or hormones is recommended 1) in diffuse goitre, 2) in nodular goitre as a trial and 3) after thyroidectomy for compressive goitre. The value of radioactive iodine uptake or excretion tests for the assessment of the response to treatment and the adjustment of the dose is emphasized.