Thyroid cancer therapy with radioiodine ¹³¹I, the impact on gonadal functions and fertility.

Overview

Thyroid cancer therapy with radioiodine ¹³¹I, the impact on gonadal functions and fertility. Differentiated thyroid cancer is the most common malignant disease of the endocrine system, the incidence of which has recently been on increase. It is the seventh most frequent cancer. These tumours affect women significantly more often than men. Surgery is the standard therapeutic approach that, if indicated, is followed by administration of radioactive iodine ¹³¹I. Success of this treatment in the Czech Republic is high (85% of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer survive for more than 40 years). Consequently, its potential impact on gonadal and reproductive functions is important for young fertile patients. This paper reports on two Canadian review studies published in 2008 and focussing on the issue of gonadal functions and fertility in men and women treated with radioiodine. With respect to ‚radiohygiene’ regulations at our hospital, male patients planning family after radioiodine ¹³¹I therapy are advised to delay conception by at lest six months. Women are advised not to become pregnant earlier than one year post‑treatment. Our experience so far is in line with the published literature. We have not observed negative effect of this treatment on our patients’ gonads and their ability to conceive.

Key words:
thyroid cancer – gonadal function – fertility – pregnancy – radioiodine therapy