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Cappellani D, Bartalena L, Bogazzi F. Short review: novel concepts in the approach to patients with amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:275-283. [PMID: 37731073 PMCID: PMC10859339 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02168-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. The approach to this condition is widely variable across different medical specialists and even among expert endocrinologists. As a matter of fact, the approach to amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis has always been considered difficult, due to diagnostic uncertainties easily resulting in missteps, and therapeutic challenges easily resulting in unresponsiveness or slow-responsiveness to the administered drugs. PURPOSE Our purpose is to review novelties emerged during the last years about this condition, with the aim to provide novel insights on the diagnostic and therapeutic management of this challenging condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Cappellani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Bartalena
- School of Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - F Bogazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
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Ермолаева АС, Фадеев ВВ. [Type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis: efficacy of glucocorticoid therapy, a retrospective analysis]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2024; 69:17-27. [PMID: 38311991 PMCID: PMC10848191 DOI: 10.14341/probl13267] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis remains a significant problem of endocrinology and cardiology. Due to the increase a life expectancy of the population, the prevalence of cardiac arrhythmias and prescribing of amiodarone are increasing. Thyrotoxicosis aggravates the existing cardiovascular disease in patients, leads to the progression of left ventricular dysfunction, relapses of arrhythmias, increasing the risk of adverse outcomes. The tactic of further management of patients is complicated: it is necessary to resolve the issue of canceling or continuing the use of antiarrhythmic drugs necessary for a patient with a history of cardiac arrhythmia, as well as competent therapy of the thyroid pathology that has arisen. Oral glucocorticoids are the first-line drugs for the treatment of patients with moderate and severe type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis. Despite the appearance of clinical recommendations, opinions on the management of patients are differ, both among cardiologists and among endocrinologists. Often thyrostatics are prescribed to patients simultaneously with glucocorticoids, although it doesn't have pathogenetic basis. AIM To evaluate the efficacy of various therapy options in patients with type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The retrospective study included 38 patients (20 men and 18 women aged 35 to 85 years) with type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis. All patients underwent an analysis of anamnestic, anthropometric data, complex laboratory and instrumental diagnostics. According to the treatment options, 3 groups were retrospectively formed: without therapy (n=19), taking glucocorticoids (n=11) and combination of glucocorticoids and thyrostatics (n=8). The follow-up period was 6-18 months, including the treatment. The efficacy of treatment in the groups was evaluated by the time of reaching euthyroidism on the background of glucocorticoid therapy and duration of thyrotoxicosis; the search was conducted for potential predictors of delayed response to glucocorticoid therapy and long-term course of thyrotoxicosis. RESULTS The average age was 62.0 [52.9; 66.3] years. The level of free thyroxine was significantly decreased after 1 month from the start of therapy in both groups: from 38.1 [32.1; 58.4] to 23.4 [19.6; 29.3] pmol/l (p<0.001) in the group taking glucocorticoids; from 73.9 [42.2; 75.6] to 39.3 [22.4; 47.2] pmol/l (p<0.001) in the combination therapy group. The time of reaching euthyroidism was longer in the combination therapy group (p=0.047), didn't depend on the dose (p=0.338) and duration of taking thiamazole (p=0.911), the delayed response to therapy correlated with age (p=-0.857; p=0.007) and time interval from the appearance of clinical symptoms of thyrotoxicosis to the start of glucocorticoid therapy (p=0.881; p<0.001). CONCLUSION The results demonstrate the dependence of glucocorticoid response on the age of the patient and start time of therapy relative to the duration of thyrotoxicosis, inexpediency of additional prescribing thyrostatics in type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- А. С. Ермолаева
- Первый Московский государственный медицинский университет им. И.М. Сеченова (Сеченовский Университет)
| | - В. В. Фадеев
- Первый Московский государственный медицинский университет им. И.М. Сеченова (Сеченовский Университет)
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Alsalama F, Alzaabi S, Salloum C, Younes MA, Bader F, Ghalib H, Atallah B. Ventricular arrhythmias, antiarrhythmic therapy and thyroidal illness in advanced heart failure: a case report and review of the literature. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-023-00985-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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de Souza LVF, Campagnolo MT, Martins LCB, Scanavacca MI. Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxicosis - Literature Review & Clinical Update. Arq Bras Cardiol 2021; 117:1038-1044. [PMID: 34817015 PMCID: PMC8682089 DOI: 10.36660/abc.20190757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Amiodarone is widely used in treating atrial and ventricular arrhythmias; however, due to its high iodine concentration, the chronic use of the drug can induce thyroid disorders. Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) can decompensate and exacerbate underlying cardiac abnormalities, leading to increased morbidity and mortality, especially in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <30%. AIT cases are classified into two subtypes that guide therapeutic management. The risks and benefits of maintaining the amiodarone must be evaluated individually, and the therapeutic decision should be taken jointly by cardiologists and endocrinologists. Type 1 AIT treatment is similar to that of spontaneous hyperthyroidism, using antithyroid drugs (methimazole and propylthiouracil) at high doses. Type 1 AIT is more complicated since it has proportionally higher recurrences or even non-remission, and definitive treatment is recommended (total thyroidectomy or radioiodine). Type 2 AIT is generally self-limited, yet due to the high mortality associated with thyrotoxicosis in cardiac patients, the treatment should be implemented for faster achievement of euthyroidism. Furthermore, in well-defined cases of type 2 AIT, the treatment with corticosteroids is more effective than treatment with antithyroid drugs. In severe cases, regardless of subtype, immediate restoration of euthyroidism through total thyroidectomy should be considered before the patient progresses to excessive clinical deterioration, as delayed surgery indication is associated with increased mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Thereza Campagnolo
- Centro Universitário LusiadaFaculdade de Ciências Médicas de SantosSantosSPBrasilCentro Universitário Lusiada Faculdade de Ciências Médicas de Santos, Santos, SP – Brasil
| | - Luiz Claudio Behrmann Martins
- Universidade de São Paulo InstitutoInstituto do Coração - Arrritmia e MarcapassoSão PauloSPBrasilUniversidade de São Paulo Instituto do Coração - Arrritmia e Marcapasso, São Paulo, SP – Brasil
| | - Maurício Ibrahim Scanavacca
- Universidade de São Paulo InstitutoInstituto do Coração - Arrritmia e MarcapassoSão PauloSPBrasilUniversidade de São Paulo Instituto do Coração - Arrritmia e Marcapasso, São Paulo, SP – Brasil
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Cappellani D, De Marco G, Ferrarini E, Torregrossa L, Di Certo AM, Cosentino G, Urbani C, Marconcini G, Mattiello A, Manetti L, Agretti P, Basolo F, Tonacchera M, Bartalena L, Bogazzi F. Identification of Two Different Phenotypes of Patients with Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxicosis and Positive Thyrotropin Receptor Antibody Tests. Thyroid 2021; 31:1463-1471. [PMID: 34271828 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Serum thyrotropin (TSH) receptor antibodies (TRAbs) are occasionally found in patients with amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT), and usually point to a diagnosis of type 1 AIT (AIT1) due to Graves' disease (GD). However, the TRAb role and function in AIT have not been clarified. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 309 AIT patients followed at a single academic center over a 30-year period. AIT TRAb-positive patients (n = 21, 7% of all cases) constituted the study group; control groups consisted of type 2 AIT (AIT2) TRAb-negative patients (n = 233), and 100 non-AIT patients with GD. Clinical and biochemical data at diagnosis and during the course of disease were compared. Histological samples of patients who had total thyroidectomy were reviewed. Stored serum samples were used for a functional assay of TRAb class G immunoglobulins (IgGs) in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells stably transfected with complementary DNA encoding for the TSH receptor. Results: TRAb-positive patients were grouped according to color flow Doppler sonography, radioactive iodine thyroid uptake, and duration of amiodarone therapy before thyrotoxicosis in type 1 (n = 9, 43%; TRAb1) or type 2 (n = 12, 57%; TRAb2) AIT. TRAb1 patients had clinical and biochemical features indistinguishable from GD controls, and were responsive to methimazole. Conversely, TRAb2 patients had clinical features similar to AIT2 controls, and were responsive to glucocorticoids, but not to methimazole. The CHO cell functional assay demonstrated that TRAb1 IgGs had a stimulatory effect on cyclic AMP production, which was absent in TRAb2 IgGs. Pathology in TRAb1 showed hyperplastic thyroid follicles and mild lymphocyte infiltration, reflecting thyroid stimulation. On the contrary, TRAb2 samples revealed follicle destruction, macrophage infiltration, and sometimes fibrosis, consistent with a destructive process. Conclusions: Almost 60% of TRAb-positive AIT patients had a destructive thyroiditis. TRAb-positive tests in AIT patients do thus not necessarily imply a diagnosis of GD and AIT1, and should be evaluated in the clinical and biochemical setting of each AIT patient and confirmed by measuring thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Cappellani
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppina De Marco
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Ferrarini
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Liborio Torregrossa
- Pathology Unit, Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Agostino Maria Di Certo
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giada Cosentino
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudio Urbani
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Marconcini
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mattiello
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Manetti
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Patrizia Agretti
- Laboratory of Chemistry and Endocrinology, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fulvio Basolo
- Pathology Unit, Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Tonacchera
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luigi Bartalena
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fausto Bogazzi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Ylli D, Wartofsky L, Burman KD. Evaluation and Treatment of Amiodarone-Induced Thyroid Disorders. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:226-236. [PMID: 33159436 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic drug containing 37% iodine by weight, with a structure similar to that of thyroid hormones. Deiodination of amiodarone releases large amounts of iodine that can impair thyroid function, causing either hypothyroidism or thyrotoxicosis in susceptible individuals reflecting ~20% of patients administered the drug. Not only the excess iodine, but also the amiodarone (or its metabolite, desethylamiodarone) itself may cause thyroid dysfunction by direct cytotoxicity on thyroid cells. We present an overview of the epidemiology and pathophysiology of amiodarone-induced thyroid disorders, with a focus on the various forms of clinical presentation and recommendations for personalized management of each form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorina Ylli
- Endocrine Section, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
| | - Leonard Wartofsky
- Endocrine Section, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
| | - Kenneth D Burman
- Endocrine Section, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
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Cappellani D, Urbani C, Manetti L, Martino E, Bartalena L, Bogazzi F. Effect of high-dose intravenous glucocorticoid therapy on serum thyroid hormone concentrations in type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis: an exploratory study. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:1637-1643. [PMID: 32300976 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01252-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT2) is a form of drug-induced destructive thyroiditis, usually treated with oral glucocorticoids (oGCs). Our objective was to investigate the short-term effects of intravenous glucocorticoids (ivGCs) on serum thyroid hormone concentrations in patients with AIT2. METHODS Exploratory study of three naive AIT2 patients treated with iv methylprednisolone (two pulses of 400 mg with no interpulse oGCs), followed by oGCs, matched 1:3 with AIT2 patients treated with oGCs alone. Changes in serum thyroid hormone concentrations were evaluated in the short-term period (24 h and 7 days) and after a cumulative dosage of 400 and 800 mg equivalents of methylprednisolone; in addition, healing time and duration of exposure to GCs were calculated. RESULTS During the first 24 h of treatment, serum FT4 concentrations increased in ivGCs patients, and decreased in oGCs patients (+ 3.3% vs - 10.7%, respectively, p = 0.025). After 7 days, serum FT4 and FT3 concentrations decreased significantly in both groups, with no statistical difference between them (p = 0.439 for FT4 and p = 0.071 for FT3), even though the cumulative GCs dose was higher in ivGCs than in oGCs patients (800 mg vs 280 mg, p = 0.008). Furthermore, the iv administration of single 400 mg pulses of methylprednisolone resulted in a less significant decrease in serum thyroid hormone concentrations when compared to equivalent GCs doses fractionated in several consecutive days (p = 0.021 for FT4 and p = 0.052 for FT3). There were no significant differences in the healing time (p = 0.239) and duration of exposure to GCs (p = 0.099). CONCLUSIONS High-dose ivGCs therapy does not offer advantages over standard oGCs therapy in the rapid, short-term control of AIT2.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Cappellani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Urbani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Manetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - E Martino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Bartalena
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - F Bogazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
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Cappellani D, Papini P, Di Certo AM, Morganti R, Urbani C, Manetti L, Tanda ML, Cosentino G, Marconcini G, Materazzi G, Martino E, Bartalena L, Bogazzi F. Duration of Exposure to Thyrotoxicosis Increases Mortality of Compromised AIT Patients: the Role of Early Thyroidectomy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5873248. [PMID: 32678873 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) and severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) have a high mortality rate that may be reduced by total thyroidectomy. Whether in this subset of patients thyroidectomy should be performed early during thyrotoxicosis or later after restoration of euthyroidism has not yet been settled. OBJECTIVES Mortality rates, including peritreatment mortality and 5-year cardiovascular mortality, and predictors of death, evaluated by Cox regression analysis. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of 64 consecutive patients with AIT selected for total thyroidectomy from 1997 to 2019. Four groups of patients were identified according to serum thyroid hormone concentrations and LVEF: Group 1 (thyrotoxic, LVEF <40%), Group 2 (thyrotoxic, LVEF ≥40%), Group 3 (euthyroid, LVEF < 40%), Group 4 (euthyroid, LVEF ≥40%). RESULTS Among patients with low LVEF (Groups 1 and 3), mortality was higher in patients undergoing thyroidectomy after restoration of euthyroidism (Group 3) than in those submitted to surgery when still thyrotoxic (Group 1): peritreatment mortality rates were 40% versus 0%, respectively (P = .048), whereas 5-year cardiovascular mortality rates were 53.3% versus 12.3%, respectively (P = .081). Exposure to thyrotoxicosis was longer in Group 3 than in Group 1 (112 days, interquartile range [IQR] 82.5-140, vs 76 days, IQR 24.8-88.5, P = .021). Survival did not differ in patients with LVEF ≥40% submitted to thyroidectomy irrespective of being thyrotoxic (Group 2) or euthyroid (Group 4): in this setting, peritreatment mortality rates were 6.3% versus 4% (P = .741) and 5-year cardiovascular mortality rates were 12.5% and 20% (P = .685), respectively. Age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.104, P = .029) and duration of exposure to thyrotoxicosis (HR 1.004, P = .039), but not presurgical serum thyroid hormone concentrations (P = .577 for free thyroxine, P = .217 for free triiodothyronine), were independent predictors of death. CONCLUSIONS A prolonged exposure to thyrotoxicosis resulted in increased mortality in patients with reduced LVEF, which may be reduced by early thyroidectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Cappellani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Piermarco Papini
- Unit of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Agostino Maria Di Certo
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Urbani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Manetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Tanda
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giada Cosentino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Marconcini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Materazzi
- Unit of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Enio Martino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luigi Bartalena
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fausto Bogazzi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxicosis: Differential Diagnosis Using 99mTc-SestaMIBI and Target-to-Background Ratio (TBR). Clin Nucl Med 2018; 43:655-662. [PMID: 30036255 DOI: 10.1097/rlu.0000000000002207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REPORT Distinguishing between amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) caused by excessive hormone synthesis (AIT-1) or by a destructive process (AIT-2) has important therapeutic implications, but is still difficult and debated. Tc-sestaMIBI thyroid scintigraphy (99m-STS) has been proposed as a tool for classifying the two forms. MATERIAL AND METHODS 30 AIT patients (11 females and 19 males) who underwent 99m-STS were retrospectively assessed for the present study. For each patient, a target-to-background ratio (TBR) was obtained on planar images. The TBR was then correlated with the qualitative assessment of the scans and the final clinical diagnosis. RESULTS Considering clinical response to treatment as the gold standard for differential diagnosis, 14 cases of AIT-1, 12 of AIT-2, and 4 mixed forms were identified. 99m-STS was able to qualitatively identify all the mixed forms, while 1/14 AIT-1 and 6/12 AIT-2 cases were misdiagnosed as mixed forms. When the quantitative index (the TBR) was compared with the final clinical diagnosis, ROC curve analysis enabled us to identify an IBR of 0.482 during 99m-STS as a cut-off capable of discriminating between AIT-1 and AIT-2, with 100% specificity and 91.7% sensitivity (P < 0.0001, area under the curve: 0.982). CONCLUSIONS Taking the TBR into consideration, 99m-STS proved a very useful tool for distinguishing AIT-1 from AIT-2, and thus offering patients appropriate treatment as of their diagnosis. This approach can avoid pointless and potentially dangerous combined overtreatments, and may speed up the return to normal thyroid function, which is crucial in AIT patients suffering from heart disease.
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Tauveron I, Batisse-Lignier M, Maqdasy S. [Challenges in the management of amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis]. Presse Med 2018; 47:746-756. [PMID: 30274916 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Amiodarone, a benzofuranic iodine-rich pan antiarrhythmic drug, is frequently associated with thyroid dysfunction. This side effect is heterogeneous and unpredicted, motivating regular evaluation of thyroid function tests. In contrary to hypothyroidism, amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is a challenging situation owing to the risk of deterioration of the general and cardiac status of such debilitating patients. Classically, AIT is either an iodine-induced thyrotoxicosis in patients with an abnormal thyroid (type I), or due to a subacute thyroiditis on a "healthy" thyroid (type II). Even if many studies tried to better identify the types of AIT, the diagnostic dilemma of type of AIT could be present, and many patients are treated by an association of antithyroid drugs (useful for type I AIT) with corticoids (useful for type II AIT). Being the main etiological factor in AIT, amiodarone is supposed to be stopped, but it could remain the only anti-arrhythmic option that is needed to be either continued or reintroduced to improve the cardiovascular survival. Recently, many studies demonstrated that amiodarone could be continued or reintroduced in patients with history of type II AIT. Nevertheless, in the other patients, amiodarone maintenance complicates the therapeutic response to the antithyroid drugs and increases the risk of AIT recurrence. Thus, amiodarone therapy is preferred to be interrupted. In such patients, thyroid ablation is recommended once AIT is under control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Tauveron
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire GReD : UMR université Clermont Auvergne-CNRS 6293, Inserm U1103, BP 10448, 63177 Aubiere, France.
| | - Marie Batisse-Lignier
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire GReD : UMR université Clermont Auvergne-CNRS 6293, Inserm U1103, BP 10448, 63177 Aubiere, France
| | - Salwan Maqdasy
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire GReD : UMR université Clermont Auvergne-CNRS 6293, Inserm U1103, BP 10448, 63177 Aubiere, France
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Maqdasy S, Benichou T, Dallel S, Roche B, Desbiez F, Montanier N, Batisse-Lignier M, Tauveron I. Issues in amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis: Update and review of the literature. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2018; 80:54-60. [PMID: 30236455 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Amiodarone, a benzofuranic iodine-rich pan-anti-arrhythmic drug, induces amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) in 7-15% of patients. AIT is a major issue due to its typical severity and resistance to anti-thyroid measures, and to its negative impact on cardiac status. Classically, AIT is either an iodine-induced thyrotoxicosis in patients with abnormal thyroid (type 1), or due to acute thyroiditis in a "healthy" thyroid (type 2). Determination of the type of AIT is a diagnostic dilemma, as characteristics of both types may be present in some patients. As it is the main etiological factor in AIT, it is recommended that amiodarone treatment should be stopped; however, it may be the only anti-arrhythmic option, needing to be either continued or re-introduced to improve cardiovascular survival. Recently, a few studies demonstrated that amiodarone could be continued or re-introduced in patients with history of type-2 AIT. However, in the other patients, it is recommended that amiodarone treatment be interrupted, to improve response to thioamides and to alleviate the risk of AIT recurrence. In such patients, thyroidectomy is recommended once AIT is under control, allowing safe re-introduction of amiodarone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwan Maqdasy
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire GReD, UMR Université Clermont Auvergne-CNRS 6293, Inserm U1103, BP 10448, 63177 Aubière, France.
| | - Thomas Benichou
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sarah Dallel
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Béatrice Roche
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Françoise Desbiez
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Nathanaëlle Montanier
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Marie Batisse-Lignier
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire GReD, UMR Université Clermont Auvergne-CNRS 6293, Inserm U1103, BP 10448, 63177 Aubière, France
| | - Igor Tauveron
- Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Laboratoire GReD, UMR Université Clermont Auvergne-CNRS 6293, Inserm U1103, BP 10448, 63177 Aubière, France
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Bartalena L, Bogazzi F, Chiovato L, Hubalewska-Dydejczyk A, Links TP, Vanderpump M. 2018 European Thyroid Association (ETA) Guidelines for the Management of Amiodarone-Associated Thyroid Dysfunction. Eur Thyroid J 2018; 7:55-66. [PMID: 29594056 PMCID: PMC5869486 DOI: 10.1159/000486957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment with amiodarone is associated with changes in thyroid function tests, but also with thyroid dysfunction (amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism, AIH, and amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis, AIT). Both AIH and AIT may develop in apparently normal thyroid glands or in the presence of underlying thyroid abnormalities. AIH does not require amiodarone withdrawal, and is treated with levothyroxine replacement if overt, whereas subclinical forms may be followed without treatment. Two main types of AIT are recognized: type 1 AIT (AIT 1), a form of iodine-induced hyperthyroidism occurring in nodular goitres or latent Graves disease, and type 2 AIT (AIT 2), resulting from destructive thyroiditis in a normal thyroid gland. Mixed/indefinite forms exist due to both pathogenic mechanisms. AIT 1 is best treated with thionamides that may be combined for a few weeks with sodium perchlorate to make the thyroid gland more sensitive to thionamides. AIT 2 is treated with oral glucocorticoids. Once euthyroidism has been restored, AIT 2 patients are followed up without treatment, whereas AIT 1 patients should be treated with thyroidectomy or radioiodine. Mixed/indefinite forms of AIT are treated with thionamides. Oral glucocorticoids can be added from the beginning if a precise diagnosis is uncertain, or after a few weeks if response to thionamides alone is poor. The decision to continue or to stop amiodarone in AIT should be individualized in relation to cardiovascular risk stratification and taken jointly by specialist cardiologists and endocrinologists. In the presence of rapidly deteriorating cardiac conditions, emergency thyroidectomy may be required for all forms of AIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Bartalena
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- *Prof. Luigi Bartalena, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Endocrine Unit, ASST dei Sette Laghi, Viale Borri 57, IT–21100 Varese (Italy), E-Mail
| | - Fausto Bogazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Chiovato
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Thera P. Links
- Department of Endocrinology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Inoue K, Saito J, Kondo T, Miki K, Sugisawa C, Tsurutani Y, Hasegawa N, Kowase S, Kakuta Y, Omura M, Nishikawa T. Amiodarone-induced Thyrotoxicosis with Cardiopulmonary Arrest. Intern Med 2018; 57:59-63. [PMID: 29033440 PMCID: PMC5799058 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.9177-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a case of amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) with cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) in a 49-year-old woman. The patient had been treated with amiodarone for non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. Two weeks prior to her admission, she developed thyrotoxicosis and prednisolone (PSL, 30 mg daily) was administered with the continuation of amiodarone. However, she was admitted to our hospital for CPA. We performed total thyroidectomy to control her thyrotoxicosis and the pathological findings were consistent with type 2 AIT. She gradually improved and was discharged on day 84. This case demonstrates the importance of considering immediate total thyroidectomy for patients with uncontrollable AIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosuke Inoue
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | - Jun Saito
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Kondo
- Department of Human Pathology, University of Yamanashi Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, Japan
| | - Kaoru Miki
- Departments of Endocrinology and Diabetes, JCHO Tokyo Yamate Medical Center, Japan
| | - Chiho Sugisawa
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuya Tsurutani
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Shinya Kowase
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | - Yukio Kakuta
- Department of Pathology, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | - Masao Omura
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Nishikawa
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Japan
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Tonnelier A, de Filette J, De Becker A, Deweer S, Velkeniers B. Successful Pretreatment Using Plasma Exchange before Thyroidectomy in a Patient with Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxicosis. Eur Thyroid J 2017; 6:108-112. [PMID: 28589093 PMCID: PMC5422831 DOI: 10.1159/000453578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amiodarone, used for the management of tachyarrhythmias, is associated with both hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis. Total thyroidectomy is an effective procedure for promptly reducing circulating thyroid hormone levels. It has been proposed in patients who have severe amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) or are refractory to medical therapy, or when such therapy is contraindicated. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) may be considered as a pretreatment for restoring a euthyroid state preoperatively, thereby reducing a patient's symptoms and the potential perioperative risk associated with thyrotoxicosis. CASE REPORT We describe the case of a 62-year-old man with type 2 AIT who presented with severe unremitting thyrotoxicosis after 8 weeks of medical therapy with glucocorticosteroids, thiamazole, and potassium perchlorate. Given the severity of his presentation, a total thyroidectomy was indicated. TPE was performed preoperatively and was successful in rapidly restoring euthyroidism. This dramatically improved the patient's symptoms which had been suggestive of ischemic heart disease. Subsequently, the patient underwent total thyroidectomy under general anesthesia without any major complications. CONCLUSION TPE is successful in rapidly restoring a clinical and biochemical euthyroid state, and may be used to decrease the perioperative risks associated with thyroidectomy in patients with life-threatening thyrotoxicosis or in cases refractory to medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Tonnelier
- Department of Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine, Brussels, Belgium
- *Annelies Tonnelier, Department of Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Campus Jette, Laarbeeklaan 101, BE-1090 Brussels (Belgium), E-Mail
| | - Jeroen de Filette
- Department of Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ann De Becker
- Department of Hematology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Deweer
- Department of Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Algemeen Ziekenhuis Sint-Elisabeth Zottegem, Zottegem, Belgium
| | - Brigitte Velkeniers
- Department of Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine, Brussels, Belgium
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Czarnywojtek A, Płazińska MT, Zgorzalewicz-Stachowiak M, Woliński K, Stangierski A, Miechowicz I, Waligórska-Stachura J, Gut P, Królicki L, Zioncheck M, Ruchała M. Dysfunction of the thyroid gland during amiodarone therapy: a study of 297 cases. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2016; 12:505-13. [PMID: 27110118 PMCID: PMC4831589 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s96606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to explore and compare the efficacy of radioiodine treatment (RIT) in hyperthyroid and euthyroid patients who have been treated with amiodarone (AM) in the past or are currently undergoing AM treatment. Clinical observation of a group of patients with amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism during a 12-month follow-up period was used for comparison. DESIGN This was a observational, two-centered study. Patients were assessed at baseline and at 2 months, 6 months, 8 months, and 12 months after RIT. PATIENTS Group A: At baseline (61 males [M] and 17 females [F], mean age 50±19 years), there were 78 euthyroid patients with cardiac arrhythmias, who were treated with AM and developed amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis, and currently require retreatment with AM. Group B: Hyperthyroid patients (92 M and 26 F, mean age 72±11.8 years) after AM therapy in the past. Group C: Hyperthyroid patients (66 M and 13 F, mean age 63.9±13.2 years) currently treated by AM. Group D: Hypothyroid patients (6 M and 16 F, mean age 61.4±10.4 years) after AM therapy. The patients from Groups A, B, and C were retreated with AM after ~3-6 weeks of RIT. RESULTS In Group A, after 12 months of RIT therapy, recurrent thyrotoxicosis was observed in six (7.7%) cases, and persistent hypothyroidism was diagnosed in 42 (53.8%) cases. In Group B, hyperthyroidism occurring during treatment with AM was found in 40 (33.9%) patients, and permanent hypothyroidism was observed in eleven (12.5%) cases. After annual follow-up in Group C, nine (11.4%) patients were diagnosed with hypothyroidism, while 27 (34.1%) patients were diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. In Group D, all patients had permanent hypothyroidism and when the concentration of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone was >10 µIU/mL, l-thyroxine was applied. CONCLUSION Our study showed that radioiodine administration is advisable in certain circumstances, even in euthyroid patients. It allows for continuation of further long-term AM treatment. Additionally, RIT allows for the reintroduction of AM therapy that was previously terminated. Hence, it can help control life-threatening tachyarrhythmias and decrease episodes of thyrotoxicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Czarnywojtek
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan, Poland; Department of Pharmacology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | | | - Kosma Woliński
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan, Poland
| | - Adam Stangierski
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan, Poland
| | | | | | - Paweł Gut
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan, Poland
| | - Leszek Królicki
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Marek Ruchała
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan, Poland
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Theodoraki A, Vanderpump MPJ. Thyrotoxicosis associated with the use of amiodarone: the utility of ultrasound in patient management. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2016; 84:172-176. [PMID: 26642425 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic drug that commonly affects the thyroid, causing hypothyroidism or thyrotoxicosis. Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is caused by excessive thyroid hormone biosynthesis in response to iodine load in autonomously functioning thyroid glands with pre-existing nodular goitre or underlying Graves' disease (type 1 or AIT 1), or by a destructive thyroiditis typically occurring in normal glands (type 2 or AIT 2). Indeterminate or mixed forms are also recognized. The distinction is clinically useful as AIT 1 is treated predominantly with thionamides, whereas AIT 2 is managed with glucocorticoids. We review the tools used to differentiate type 1 from type 2 thyrotoxicosis, with specific reference to the imaging modalities used.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark P J Vanderpump
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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17
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Joven MH, Anderson RJ. Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia Associated with Systemic Glucocorticoids in the Treatment of Type 2 Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxicosis. AACE Clin Case Rep 2016. [DOI: 10.4158/ep15613.cr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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18
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Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxic thyroiditis: a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Case Rep Med 2014; 2014:231651. [PMID: 25477968 PMCID: PMC4244946 DOI: 10.1155/2014/231651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Amiodarone is an iodine-based, potent antiarrhythmic drug bearing a structural resemblance to thyroxine (T4). It is known to produce thyroid abnormalities ranging from abnormal thyroid function testing to overt hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. These adverse effects may occur in patients with or without preexisting thyroid disease. Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is a clinically recognized condition commonly due to iodine-induced excessive synthesis of thyroid, also known as type 1 AIT. In rare instances, AIT is caused by amiodarone-induced inflammation of thyroid tissue, resulting in release of preformed thyroid hormones and a hyperthyroid state, known as type 2 AIT. Distinguishing between the two states is important, as both conditions have different treatment implications; however, a mixed presentation is not uncommon, posing diagnostic and treatment challenges. We describe a case of a patient with amiodarone-induced type 2 hyperthyroidism and review the current literature on the best practices for diagnostic and treatment approaches.
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Meerwein C, Vital D, Greutmann M, Schmid C, Huber GF. [Total thyroidectomy in patients with amiodarone-induced hyperthyroidism: when does the risk of conservative treatment exceed the risk of surgery?]. HNO 2014; 62:100-5. [PMID: 24549509 DOI: 10.1007/s00106-013-2806-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Amiodarone plays a pivotal role in the treatment of ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias. However, amiodarone-induced hyperthyroidism (AIH) is one of the most feared complications, which necessitates interdisciplinary treatment and careful balancing of the risks of conservative treatment against those of total thyroidectomy. In this article we discuss the pharmacological aspects of amiodarone and its diverse effects on the thyroid. Furthermore, we present diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and report our positive experiences with total thyroidectomy in patients with AIH. Particularly in patients for whom continuation of amiodarone treatment is compulsory, a well-timed total thyroidectomy is a reliable therapeutic option, with minimal complication rates and immediate amelioration of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Meerwein
- Klinik für Ohren-, Nasen-, Hals- und Gesichtschirurgie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Frauenklinikstr. 24, 8091, Zürich, Schweiz
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Patel N, Inder WJ, Sullivan C, Kaye G. An audit of amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis--do anti-thyroid drugs alone provide adequate treatment? Heart Lung Circ 2014; 23:549-54. [PMID: 24613043 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2014.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 01/11/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amiodarone is a widely used anti-arrhythmic drug. A common long-term complication is amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT). We examined retrospectively the efficacy of anti-thyroid drugs with or without prednisolone and the role of surgical thyroidectomy in the treatment of AIT in a single centre, in an iodine-replete region of Australia. METHODS A retrospective audit of patients with AIT was performed between 2002-2012 at this centre. Twenty-seven patients, mean age 60.9 ± 2.3 years were identified. Medical therapy (anti-thyroid drugs, prednisolone) was commenced according to the treating endocrinologist. The main outcomes were time to euthyroidism and number proceeding to thyroidectomy. RESULTS Of 11 patients commenced on anti-thyroid drugs alone, seven (64%) required the addition of prednisolone. Baseline free T4 was significantly higher in those ultimately treated with prednisolone (58.4 ± 6.3pmol/L) versus those not (31.7 ± 3.4pmol/L, P<0.05). Although similar results were seen with free T3, the difference was not significant (P=0.06). In patients with baseline free T4 <30pmol/L, 75% (3/4) achieved euthyroidism without prednisolone. Neither the use of prednisolone nor continuation of amiodarone significantly influenced time to euthyroidism. Eleven patients (41%) proceeded to surgical thyroidectomy, which was undertaken by an experienced surgical team without significant complications and no mortality. CONCLUSION Patients with AIT generally required glucocorticoids. Mild disease (free T4 <30pmol/L) may be successfully treated with anti-thyroid drugs alone. Surgical thyroidectomy is a safe and effective treatment for those refractive to medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Patel
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Warrick J Inder
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Clair Sullivan
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gerald Kaye
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Department of Cardiology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Danzi S, Klein I. Amiodarone-induced thyroid dysfunction. J Intensive Care Med 2013; 30:179-85. [PMID: 24067547 DOI: 10.1177/0885066613503278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Amiodarone is an effective medication for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Originally developed for the treatment of angina, it is now the most frequently prescribed antiarrhythmia drug despite the fact that its use is limited because of potential serious side effects including adverse effects on the thyroid gland and thyroid hormones. Although the mechanisms of action of amiodarone on the thyroid gland and thyroid hormone metabolism are poorly understood, the structural similarity of amiodarone to thyroid hormones, including the presence of iodine moieties on the inner benzene ring, may play a role in causing thyroid dysfunction. Amiodarone-induced thyroid dysfunction includes amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) and amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism (AIH). The AIT develops more commonly in iodine-deficient areas and AIH in iodine-sufficient areas. The AIT type 1 usually occurs in patients with known or previously undiagnosed thyroid dysfunction or goiter. The AIT type 2 usually occurs in normal thyroid glands and results in destruction of thyroid tissue caused by thyroiditis. This is the result of an intrinsic drug effect from the amiodarone itself. Mixed types are not uncommon. Patients with cardiac disease receiving amiodarone treatment should be monitored for signs of thyroid dysfunction, which often manifest as a reappearance of the underlying cardiac disease state. When monitoring patients, initial tests should include the full battery of thyroid function tests, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and antithyroid antibodies. Mixed types of AIT can be challenging both to diagnose and treat and therapy differs depending on the type of AIT. Treatment can include thionamides and/or glucocorticoids. The AIH responds favorably to thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Amiodarone is lipophilic and has a long half-life in the body. Therefore, stopping the amiodarone therapy usually has little short-term benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Danzi
- Department of Biological Sciences and Geology, Queensborough Community College, Bayside, NY, USA
| | - Irwin Klein
- Department of Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Bogazzi F, Tomisti L, Bartalena L, Aghini-Lombardi F, Martino E. Amiodarone and the thyroid: a 2012 update. J Endocrinol Invest 2012; 35:340-8. [PMID: 22433945 DOI: 10.3275/8298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Amiodarone-induced thyroid dysfunction occurs in 15-20% of amiodarone-treated patients. Amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism (AIH) does not pose relevant problems, is easily controlled by L-thyroxine replacement, and does not require amiodarone withdrawal. Most frequently AIH develops in patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis. Amiodarone- induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is most frequently due to destructive thyroiditis (type 2 AIT) causing discharge of thyroid hormones from the damaged, but otherwise substantially normal gland. Less frequently AIT is a form of hyperthyroidism (type 1 AIT) caused by the iodine load in a diseased gland (nodular goiter, Graves' disease). A clearcut differentiation between the two main forms is not always possible, despite recent diagnostic advances. As a matter of fact, mixed or indefinite forms do exist, contributed to by both thyroid damage and increased thyroid hormone synthesis. Treatment of type 1 (and mixed forms) AIT is based on the use of thionamides, a short course of potassium perchlorate and, if treatment is not rapidly effective, oral glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids are the first-line treatment for type 2 AIT. Amiodarone should be discontinued, if feasible from a cardiac standpoint. Continuation of amiodarone has recently been associated with a delayed restoration of euthyroidism and a higher chance of recurrence after glucocorticoid withdrawal. Whether amiodarone treatment can be safely reinstituted after restoration of euthyroidism is still unknown. In rare cases of AIT resistance to standard treatments, or when a rapid restoration of euthyroidism is advisable, total thyroidectomy represents a valid alternative. Radioiodine treatment is usually not feasible due to the low thyroidal iodine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Bogazzi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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23
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Current world literature. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2010; 23:125-30. [PMID: 21124095 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0b013e3283422cce] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Bogazzi F, Bartalena L, Martino E. Approach to the patient with amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:2529-35. [PMID: 20525904 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Amiodarone, a benzofuranic iodine-rich antiarrhythmic drug, causes thyroid dysfunction in 15-20% of cases. Although amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism poses no particular problem, amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. There are two main forms of AIT: type 1, a form of iodine-induced hyperthyroidism, and type 2, a drug-induced destructive thyroiditis. However, mixed/indefinite forms exist that may be caused by both pathogenic mechanisms. Type 1 AIT usually occurs in abnormal thyroid glands, whereas type 2 AIT develops in apparently normal thyroid glands (or small goiters). Diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis is easy, based on the finding of increased free thyroid hormone concentrations and suppressed TSH levels. Thyroid radioactive iodine (RAI) uptake values are usually very low/suppressed in type 2 AIT, most commonly low or low-normal, but sometimes normal or increased in type 1 AIT despite the iodine load. Color flow Doppler sonography shows absent hypervascularity in type 2 and increased vascularity in type 1 AIT. Mixed/indefinite forms may have features of both AIT types. Thionamides represent the first-line treatment for type 1 AIT, but the iodine-replete gland is not very responsive; potassium perchlorate, by inhibiting thyroid iodine uptake, may increase the response to thionamides. Type 2 AIT is best treated by oral glucocorticoids. The response very much depends on the thyroid volume and the severity of thyrotoxicosis. Mixed/indefinite forms may require a combination of thionamides, potassium perchlorate, and steroids. RAI is usually not feasible in AIT due to low RAI uptake values. Thyroidectomy represents a valid option in cases resistant to medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Bogazzi
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Ospedale Cisanello, Via Paradisa, 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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López Gallardo G, Aguirre Sánchez-Covisa M, Pérez Martínez MA. [Treatment of type 2 amiodarone-induced hyperthyroidism]. ENDOCRINOLOGIA Y NUTRICION : ORGANO DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ENDOCRINOLOGIA Y NUTRICION 2010; 57:227-228. [PMID: 20395181 DOI: 10.1016/j.endonu.2010.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2009] [Revised: 02/08/2010] [Accepted: 02/19/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Abstract
Amiodarone is a benzofuran derivative approved for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Traditionally classified as a class III antiarrhythmic agent, amiodarone possesses electrophysiologic properties of all four Vaughan-Williams classes. This drug, however, has high iodine content, and this feature plus the intrinsic effects on the body make amiodarone especially toxic to the thyroid gland. Treatment can result in a range of effects from mild derangements in thyroid function to overt hypothyroidism or thyrotoxicosis. The diagnosis and treatment of amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism is usually straightforward, whereas that of amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis and the ability to distinguish between the type 1 and type 2 forms of the disease are much more challenging. Dronedarone was approved in 2009 for the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation. As amiodarone, dronedarone is a benzofuran derivative with similar electrophysiologic properties. In contrast to amiodarone, however, dronedarone is structurally devoid of iodine and has a notably shorter half-life. In studies reported before FDA approval, dronedarone proved to be associated with significantly fewer adverse effects than amiodarone, making it a more attractive choice for patients with atrial fibrillation or flutter, who are at risk of developing amiodarone-induced thyroid dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Cohen-Lehman
- Department of Medicine, North Shore University Hospital, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
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