Abstract
Background/Aim: Radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment is a cornerstone of treatment of differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Although serious RAI-related complications are uncommon, there have been reports of airway emergencies. Here, a life-threatening airway complication after RAI treatment is reported and previously reported cases are reviewed. Case Report: A 79-year old man with Hürthle cell carcinoma and a remnant thyroid lobe after surgery developed an edema compromising the airway two days after receiving radioactive iodine treatment. An emergency awake intubation and tracheostomy were performed. He could be successfully de-cannulated 17 days later with no long-term complications. Conclusion: Although rare, life-threatening airway complications after radioactive iodine treatment, especially with high dose treatment in patients with remaining thyroid tissue, can occur and these patients should be supervised where these complications can be managed.
- Received January 23, 2023.
- Revision received February 2, 2023.
- Accepted February 3, 2023.
- Copyright © 2023 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.
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