Variable hyperthyroidism outcomes related to different treatment regimens: an analysis of UK Biobank data
Authors' conclusion
Our findings were consistent with those previously reported in the literature and do not reveal any evidence from the UK Biobank to contradict the safety of RAI being offered as a first-line treatment. The data are also suggestive, however, that treatments do not fully eliminate risks of complications related to hyperthyroidism. This reinforces the need for both clear communication where there may be risks of complications such as osteoporosis as well as clinical support for patients even after definitive treatment.
Study context
- Population
- UK Biobank participants with hyperthyroidism
- Participants
- 793 participants
- Exposure
- Radioactive iodine (RAI) vs thyroidectomy vs ATD alone
- Outcome
- All-cause mortality
Methodological detailslongitudinal, UK Biobank data
- Longitudinal
- UK Biobank data
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
Time to event ratio
1.8
95% CI 0.9–3.6
RAI · reduced mortality with RAI; not statistically significant
Time ratio
2.0
95% CI 1.1–3.9
Thyroidectomy · reduced mortality with thyroidectomy
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
| Outcome | OR (95% CI) | |
|---|---|---|
| Comorbidities (osteoporosis, cardiovascular events, AF) in treated patientsvs controlsAF | 2.2 (1.2–4.1) | |
| 0.20.5125Odds ratio (log scale) |
Comorbidities (osteoporosis, cardiovascular events, AF) in treated patients vs controls
- ORs generally elevated for osteoporosis, cardiovascular events and AF in treated patients, not statistically significant except AF with antithyroid drugs (ATDs)
Original publication
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