HYPOTHYROIDISM AND XEROSTOMIA AFTER HEAD AND NECK CANCER RADIATION THERAPY: CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

[...]the subjective perception of dry mouth (xerostomia) and reduction in salivary flow rate (hyposalivation) are frequent irreversible complications. [...]the TPOAb were negative (< 20 UI/ml). Because the patient underwent external radiotherapy for hypopharynx carcinoma, both subclinical hypothyroidism (increased TSH with normal fT4) and the decreased presence of saliva (xerostomia) were related to the oncologic treatment - external beam therapy. Besides the treatment with low-dose thyroxine (50 pg per day), the patient was referred for a complete dental examination and management. 3.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION These two cases are illustrating the effect of HNCRT on the thyroid gland and oral cavity. According to Palmer, Einhorn, and Wikholm (cited by 10), the incidence of established hypothyroidism was 7.3% in patients with carcinoma of larynx and hypopharynx, 10 years after irradiation.