Systemic Retinoids and Thyrotoxicosis in Multinodular Goiter: Side Effect or Coincidence?

The document discussed two cases of patients developing thyrotoxicosis while on systemic retinoid therapy. A 23-year-old female treated with isotretinoin for acne and a 63-year-old female treated with acitretin for psoriasis both experienced thyroid dysfunctions, including elevated free T3 and T4 levels and suppressed TSH. These cases, along with previous reports, suggested that retinoids might cause transient hyperthyroidism by increasing iodine uptake and releasing thyroid hormones in patients with nodular goiter and iodine insufficiency. Further investigation was recommended to confirm this potential side effect.