Current therapeutic approaches to hyperthyroidism.

Treatment of hyperthyroidism varies, depending upon the underlying etiology of thyrotoxicosis. Antithyroid drugs may be administered to patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism for prolonged periods in an attempt to obtain a remission. Alternatively, a short course of antithyroid drugs may be administered to patients with Graves' disease or toxic adenoma to achieve euthyroidism prior to definitive therapy with radioiodine or surgery. Radioiodine is the preferred therapy for most adult patients, however, large goiters, especially i f obstructive symptoms are present, are best treated with surgery.