Reversal of Radioiodine-Induced Azoospermia in Thyroid Cancer: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION

Radioiodine-131 (131I) is a commonly used adjuvant therapy following surgery for differentiated thyroid cancer. The nonspecific radiation damage may affect the male reproductive system, impacting sperm quality. However, reports of azoospermia are rare.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 26-year-old male patient with papillary thyroid carcinoma underwent cumulative 14.06 GBq 131I ablation therapy postoperatively. Eight months post-treatment, he was diagnosed with azoospermia due to planned conception. After ruling out congenital factors, 131I-related iatrogenic injury was considered. Sperm were detected again in a semen analysis 13 months after treatment completion. Subsequently, successful natural conception occurred, and the spouse delivered a healthy infant vaginally.

CONCLUSION

131I therapy may induce azoospermia. However, the injury may be reversible. Clinicians should monitor reproductive risks in young patients and conduct follow-up evaluations.