The catalytic role of iodine excess in loss of homeostasis in autoimmune thyroiditis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the latest developments concerning the role of iodine in the pathophysiology of autoimmune thyroiditis.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies have provided evidence that in areas with excess iodine intake, increased incidence of autoimmune thyroiditis marked by high titers of thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies has occurred. Investigations in the NOD.H2h4 mouse, a strain prone to AIT, showed that they are better adapted to the Wolff-Chaikoff effect.

SUMMARY: To provide an overview of the studies conducted during the last few years implicating iodine in the development and manifestation of autoimmune thyroiditis.