Abstract

This retrospective multicenter study was designed to survey the management of childhood and adolescent hyperthyroidism in six pediatric endocrinological units in Germany. Fifty-six patients aged between 1.1 and 17.0 yr (median 10.5 yr) were enrolled. Data were collected retrospectively from the patients' records by a trained pediatric endocrinologist using standardized questionnaires. After the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism was established on the basis of clinical and biological findings, treatment with antithyroid drugs (carbimazole, methimazole, thiamazole, propylthiouracil) was started in all patients. In 55/56 of the patients treated with antithyroid drugs, euthyroidism was achieved (98%). However, 26 patients (47%) were still hyperthyroid after discontinuation of the medication. Eight children with continued hyperthyroidism ultimately underwent subtotal thyroidectomy 13-136 (median 28) months after the initial diagnosis. Management principles of the participating centers were heterogeneous. As a consequence, prospective multicenter studies are urgently needed to establish clear standards for the diagnosis and therapy of childhood hyperthyroidism.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.