Subclinical thyrotoxicosis and disease aetiology

In a retrospective study of 96 patients diagnosed with subclinical thyrotoxicosis (SCT), Schouten et al. sought to find the progression at which SCT progresses to overt hyperthyroidism and the potential risk factors associated with the progression. Of the risk factors assessed, underlying thyroid pathology was the only independent predictor of outcome. They found a 5-8% rate of disease progression, with a high rate of hyperthyroidism found in patients with autonomous nodules. This study could thus inform in the preparation of guidelines on when individuals with SCT should be treated for overt disease. Schouten et al. (2011) Clinical Endocrinology 74 257–261.

Read the full article at DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2010.03908.x.