Changes in Ovarian Function after Radioactive Iodine among Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma at St. Luke's Medical Center, Philippines

Abstract

Objective. To determine the prevalence of menstrual and reproductive dysfunction among subjects who have undergone radioiodine treatment for thyroid carcinoma. Methodology. This study enrolled adult women with Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma who received the treatment at age 40 years and below. Data was processed using SAS program and evaluated using Fischer’s test and Wilcoxon test. Results. The study enrolled 46 women. Three reported cycle irregularities, 4 reported changes in amount of bleeding and 1 had amenorrhea. The prevalence rate of menstrual abnormalities was 15.2%. These women received a significantly higher dose of radioactive iodine (RAI) (120 vs. 110 mCi, p = 0.0064). Eleven women tried to conceive and there were 5 births to 5 different subjects after radiation. There were no congenital anomalies and 1 miscarriage. Four women were menopausal with an average age of 44.4 years old. Conclusion. This study showed that the prevalence of menstrual disturbances after high dose radioactive iodine treatment among thyroid cancer patients is 15.2%. The affected group received a significantly higher dose of radioactive iodine compared to the unaffected group.