THIOCYANATE GOITER IN MAN

Abstract

Two cases of hyperplastic goiter accompanied by hypothyroidism in patients being treated for hypertension by means of K thiocyanate are reported. The thyroids were diffusely enlarged, hard, and exhibited evidences of increased vascu-larity, bruit, etc. Biopsy in one of the cases showed the mildest kind of hyperplasia. Exophthalmos was present in one case. There was a low level of blood I, low BMR, diminished excretion of radio-active I and increased urinary excretion of thyrotrophic hormone in the inactivated form. The theory is offered that the drug blocks the formation of hormone by the thyroid, and that the resulting low level of thyroid hormone in the blood stimulates the pituitary with respect to thyrotrophic hormone function. This in turn causes hyperplasia of the thyroid which, however, results in no increased secretion of thyroid hormone. Thiocyanate goiter can probably be prevented by prophylactic doses of I. When established it can be relieved by adm. of thyroid, even though thiocyanate therapy for hypertension is continued.