What are the side effects of Iodine-131 treatment?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Shuwen

Introduction

Radioactive iodine [131I] therapy for metastatic thyroid cancer may cause the following adverse reactions: gastrointestinal reactions (nausea and vomiting), transient bone marrow suppression, radiation-induced sialadenitis, acute thyroid storm, neck pain and swelling, pain during swallowing, sore throat and cough approximately 3 days after treatment (often unresponsive to analgesics), and temporary hair loss occurring about 2–3 months after treatment.

Iodine-131 is a chemical method used to treat thyroid disorders, and chemical therapies inherently have significant effects in clinical practice. What side effects does iodine-131 treatment cause?

What Are the Side Effects of Iodine-131 Treatment?

Most patients with hyperthyroidism experience no adverse reactions after iodine [131I] therapy, while a small number may develop mild symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea within one week, which usually resolve within a few days. After taking iodine [131I], due to radiation-induced destruction of thyroid tissue, large amounts of thyroid hormones are released into the bloodstream. About two weeks after administration, hyperthyroid symptoms may worsen, and some patients may even develop thyroid storm. This may be caused by excessive release of thyroid hormones into the blood under ionizing radiation, triggered by mental stress or infection.

Iodine [131I] treatment for metastatic thyroid cancer may lead to the following adverse reactions: gastrointestinal reactions (nausea and vomiting), transient bone marrow suppression, radiation-induced sialadenitis (salivary gland inflammation), acute thyroid storm, neck pain and swelling, pain during swallowing, sore throat and cough around three days after treatment—often unresponsive to painkillers—and temporary hair loss approximately 2–3 months after treatment. The most important complication of treating hyperthyroidism with iodine-131 is permanent hypothyroidism, whose incidence increases over time following treatment.

If side effects occur after iodine-131 treatment, it's essential to actively cooperate with your doctor to manage and treat these side effects. We hope this answer has been helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!

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Fruits to avoid after Iodine-131 treatment

After I-131 treatment, patients should avoid fruits with high iodine content, such as pineapples, oranges, bananas, persimmons, and grapes. Consuming these fruits may lead to endocrine disorders, resulting in secondary blood glucose imbalances or secondary metabolic syndromes, which can destabilize the condition. It may also cause thyroid tissue fibrosis, leading to prolonged illness and poor treatment response.

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Video of the entire radioactive iodine-131 treatment process

Iodine-131 therapy is a radioactive treatment used for thyroid diseases. The entire treatment process generally consists of three steps: iodine uptake test, thyroid imaging, and therapy. It is recommended to go to a正规 hospital and undergo the procedure under the guidance of a qualified physician. Adequate rest is important during treatment. As there is a possibility of recurrence after treatment, regular follow-up examinations are necessary.

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Is radioactive iodine-131 treatment necessary for lymph node metastasis?

Whether radioactive iodine-131 treatment is necessary for lymph node metastasis in thyroid cancer depends on the number of metastases—it may not be required, or it may be needed. Patients with lymph node metastasis from thyroid cancer should seek timely medical attention to determine if extensive metastasis has occurred, and should follow their doctor's recommendations for appropriate treatment to prevent widespread cancer cell dissemination.

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Is Iodine-131 treatment dangerous?

I-131 therapy is generally associated with risks, and the specific situation should be evaluated according to individual circumstances. In addition, I-131 therapy may cause fetal malformations or birth defects in pregnant women; therefore, women who are pregnant should not undergo I-131 treatment. Patients must choose a正规 hospital and an experienced physician for treatment.

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What to do about lifelong hypothyroidism after I-131 treatment

Hypothyroidism refers to decreased thyroid function. Following I-131 treatment, lifelong hypothyroidism requires timely supplementation of thyroid hormones and can be alleviated through general management and medication. Patients should promptly discontinue I-131 therapy under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, levothyroxine sodium may be selected according to medical advice, effectively supplementing thyroid hormones and reducing or eliminating symptoms.

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What tests should be复查 one month after I-131 treatment?

Follow-up examinations one month after I-131 treatment typically include thyroid function tests, liver function tests, kidney function tests, and routine blood tests. One month after I-131 treatment for hyperthyroidism, thyroid function can be reassessed using color Doppler ultrasound of the thyroid, which helps guide adjustments in subsequent treatment. Rechecking liver and kidney function and routine blood tests helps determine whether the patient's hepatic and renal functions are normal and confirms whether hypothyroidism has developed.

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How long after I-131 treatment should a follow-up examination be done?

Patients who have undergone I-131 therapy need to have their first follow-up examination within 1 to 3 months to ensure treatment effectiveness and overall health. The timing of follow-up should be appropriately adjusted based on individual circumstances to guarantee the accuracy and effectiveness of the evaluation. Prior to the examination, patients should avoid taking iodine-containing medications or foods to prevent interference with test results.

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Main adverse reactions of Iodine-131 therapy for hyperthyroidism

1. Hypothyroidism: Primarily caused by radiation-induced destruction of thyroid cells by iodine-131. 2. Radiation-induced thyroiditis: An acute condition typically presenting with thyroid pain and dysphagia. 3. Worsening of exophthalmos: Radioactive iodine-131 therapy for thyrotoxicosis is a known factor that may exacerbate and accelerate the progression of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy.

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