Smokers at higher risk of TAO development after treatment for Graves’ hyperthyroidism

This study's authors conducted a randomized clinical trial to compare the worsening or development of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) in Graves' hyperthyroidism patients treated with iodine-131 or antithyroid drugs. After four years, the risk of de novo TAO development was greater in those who underwent radioiodine treatment compared with medical treatment. However, the risk of worsening of TAO was similar between the treatment groups. Smoking increased the risk of developing de novo TAO and worsening in those who already had TAO, but choice of treatment did not affect this risk. Despite this, smokers treated with radioiodine had the highest risk of TAO.

Financial disclosures
Drs. Taban and Goldberg have no financial interests to disclose.