In a recent study, researchers said that iodinated contrast media, used in certain imaging procedures, may cause disturbance in thyroid function. It can increase the risk of hyperthyroidism. The study was carried out by a team from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston. More details are highlighted in Archives of Internal Medicine.
Researchers reported "Iodinated contrast media (ICM) are commonly administered pharmaceutical agents. Although certain complications of ICM (e.g., contrast-induced nephropathy) have been extensively studied, there has been little examination of the effect of ICM on thyroid function." A team led by Connie M. Rhee, M.D. conducted a study to check if patients injected with iodinated contrast media, without having history of thyroid abnormalities, would have changes in their thyroid glands after administration. The study indicated that ICM administration can be associated with elevated risk of incident hyperthyroidism.
