JUVENILE THYROTOXICOSIS

Results of treatment are presented in 30 thyrotoxic children whose symptoms appeared prior to age 15 years. Fifteen patients received thyroid irradiation with or without stable iodine and 15 received prolonged treatment with antithyroid compounds, with or without stable iodine. Among the 24 patients in whom the final results of treatment could be fairly assessed, satisfactory remissions were obtained in 17 (70.8%). Approximately similar results were obtained in those who were irradiated and in those who received antithyroid compounds. Satisfactory remissions were obtained in 5 of the 6 patients subjected to thyroidectomy. Two cases of unusual interest are described. Reasons for the present conservative policy in the treatment of juvenile thyrotoxicosis are stated.