Radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy

About this approach

Radioactive iodine uses iodine-131, taken by mouth, to deliver radiation to thyroid cells that absorb iodine. It may be used after thyroid surgery or for selected recurrent or metastatic differentiated thyroid cancers. It does not treat every thyroid cancer type.

Where it fits: Systemic radiopharmaceutical treatment for selected thyroid cancers

Where this treatment is used

I-131 is established for appropriately selected papillary and follicular thyroid cancers. Benefit depends on recurrence risk, disease extent, iodine uptake, prior treatment, and treatment goal. Medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancers generally do not respond because they do not take up iodine in the same way.

Procedure and practical considerations

Temporary radiation precautions, dry mouth, taste changes, nausea, salivary-gland injury, fertility considerations, and effects on blood counts are among the issues to discuss. Preparation may involve thyroid-stimulating hormone and a low-iodine diet. Pregnancy and breastfeeding require specific restrictions.

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