Testicular damage after radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy for thyroid cancer

Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 1983 May;18(5):465-72. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.1983.tb02876.x.

Abstract

Testicular damage was evaluated in twelve men by determination of sperm counts, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone up to 3 1/2 years after treatment with radioactive iodine (131I) therapy for thyroid cancer. Dose-dependent spermatogenic damage with elevation of serum FSH was evident. Full recovery in one and partial recovery in another patient was documented during 2 1/2 years of follow-up. Serial study in two patients documented a small but significant effect of 50 mCi 131I on serum FSH levels and clinically important effects appear to be restricted to men having multiple doses totalling over 100 mCi.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone / blood
  • Humans
  • Iodine Radioisotopes / adverse effects*
  • Iodine Radioisotopes / therapeutic use
  • Luteinizing Hormone / blood
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Sperm Count
  • Spermatogenesis / radiation effects*
  • Testis / radiation effects*
  • Testosterone / blood
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Iodine Radioisotopes
  • Testosterone
  • Luteinizing Hormone
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone