Hyperthyroidism in Children
June 2015
in “
Pediatrics in Review
”
TLDR Graves' disease mainly causes hyperthyroidism in children, especially girls aged 10-14, with treatment options including medication, radioactive iodine, and surgery.
Hyperthyroidism in children was primarily caused by Graves' disease, affecting over 95% of cases, with an incidence of 0.9 per 100,000 in the UK and Ireland, predominantly in girls aged 10-14. Genetic factors contributed significantly to its pathogenesis. Symptoms included growth acceleration and cardiovascular issues, diagnosed through thyroid function tests and imaging. Treatment options were antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery, with methimazole preferred due to PTU's hepatotoxicity risk. Remission was rare, with rates of 25%-40%, and many required definitive therapies. β-blockers managed symptoms, and radioactive iodine was for those not in remission after 1-2 years. Surgery was for younger children or severe cases, with ongoing monitoring crucial due to relapse risks.
