Study note
SurgeryThe thyroid gland

Goitrogens and their effects on iodine handling

THE CONTEXT
Dietary substances, drugs and excessive iodide can interfere with steps involved in thyroid hormone synthesis.

Sources and mechanisms

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Brassica vegetables, including cabbage, kale and rape, contain thiocyanate and are goitrogenic.
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Para-aminosalicylic acid (PAS) and antithyroid drugs* are also goitrogens.
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Thiocyanates and perchlorates interfere with iodide trapping.
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Carbimazole and thiouracil compounds interfere with iodide oxidation and the binding of iodine to tyrosine.

Excess iodine

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Large quantities of iodides inhibit organic iodine binding and can produce an iodide goitre.
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Excessive iodine intake may be associated with an increased incidence of autoimmune thyroid disease.
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