THYROID DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS RECEIVING COMBINED TREATMENT FOR BREAST CANCER: A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY
Authors
Azimova Makhbuba Abrorjon qizi, Nasirova Khurshidakhon Kudratullayevna, Kurbanov Daniyar Bakhtiyarovich
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Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Combined treatment approaches significantly improve survival but are associated with systemic complications, including endocrine toxicity. The thyroid gland is particularly sensitive to anticancer therapies.
This prospective study aimed to evaluate functional and structural changes of the thyroid gland in patients with breast cancer during combined treatment. A total of 136 patients with stage II–III breast cancer and 23 control patients with stage I disease were included. Thyroid function was assessed by measuring serum levels of TSH, free T4 (fT4), free T3 (fT3), and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO), while ultrasound was used to evaluate structural changes.
The results demonstrated a significant increase in TSH levels and a decrease in fT4 and fT3 concentrations in patients receiving combined therapy compared to controls (p<0.0001). The prevalence of hypothyroidism exceeded 60%, with more pronounced changes observed in patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy. Ultrasound examination revealed structural abnormalities in approximately 40% of patients. Clinical symptoms consistent with hypothyroidism were also significantly more frequent in the treatment groups.
In conclusion, thyroid dysfunction is a common manifestation of endocrine toxicity in patients undergoing combined treatment for breast cancer. Routine monitoring of thyroid function and ultrasound evaluation are recommended for early detection and management of these disorders.
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Authors
Azimova Makhbuba Abrorjon qizi, Nasirova Khurshidakhon Kudratullayevna, Kurbanov Daniyar Bakhtiyarovich
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