Salivary gland dysfunction after radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy in patients following total thyroidectomy: emphasis on radioactive iodine therapy dose

Clin Imaging. 2015 May-Jun;39(3):396-400. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2014.12.018. Epub 2015 Jan 7.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate symptoms, images of salivary gland dysfunction, and related clinical factors in thyroid cancer patients with total thyroidectomy followed by radioiodine therapy (RIT).

Methods: We included 164 patients who underwent thyroid ultrasonography or contrast-enhanced neck computed tomography more than 6 months later after RIT. Correlation between subjective symptoms and various RIT doses was also evaluated.

Results: Swelling and decreased salivary volume were the most common symptoms and images. RIT dose was the only factor with a positive correlation (P<.001).

Conclusion: The dose of RIT should be carefully determined to minimize gland dysfunction.

Keywords: Radiation sialadenitis; Radioiodine therapy; Salivary gland dysfunction; Total thyroidectomy.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iodine Radioisotopes / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiation Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Radiation Injuries / etiology*
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Salivary Gland Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Salivary Gland Diseases / etiology*
  • Salivary Glands / diagnostic imaging
  • Sialography
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / surgery
  • Thyroidectomy*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ultrasonography
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Iodine Radioisotopes