Endocrine Abstracts

Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy is the usual treatment of choice for hyperthyroidism. We have demonstrated a success rate of 88% (euthyroidism or hypothyroidism) over a 5-year period. We are very happy to recommend RAI, however patients still express concerns.

There is little literature available about patients’ reactions to RAI: to our knowledge, only two studies. We performed a survey of our RAI treated patients. Of 143 patients contacted, 87 replied (60.8%).

In addition to verbal information, 43 (49.4%) recalled receiving written information; 42 of whom (97.7%) were happy with this information and found it easy to understand. Fifteen used the internet; 73.3% finding this useful. Using this information (verbal, written or internet), 76 patients (87.4%) were aware of why RAI had been suggested for their treatment. Approximately 70% of patients reported awareness of the radiation and safety aspects of RAI.

Eighty-one patients (93.1%) found the treatment process easy with few difficulties reported. Overall, 76 of 87 patients (87.4%) were satisfied with their RAI treatment and management.

There was a noticeable lack of patient knowledge of their thyroid condition; only 68 patients (78.2%) were aware of their original diagnosis and need for treatment. Only 52 patients (59.8%) were clear about complications of hyperthyroidism, particularly heart disease.

Only 59 patients (67.8%) were aware of possible outcomes and 54 (62.0%) aware of a possible need for long-term therapy following RAI. Sixty-one patients (70.1%) knew that thyroxine was life-long treatment; however, of those treated with thyroxine such knowledge was better (85.2%).

Our results show general satisfaction with treatment and follow-up arrangements. However, there was a surprising lack of knowledge by patients of their original thyroid condition, complications and an understanding of thyroxine replacement. Provision of structured education for thyroid disease, as in diabetes, may help address this problem.