Ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation treatment for toxic multinodular goiter: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Hyperthyroidism is a prevalent condition characterized by increased excitability of multiple systems and hypermetabolism. Toxic multinodular goiter (TMNG) is a prevalent cause of thyrotoxicosis secondary to Graves' disease. TMNG is mostly treated with radioiodine (131I) or thyroidectomy but is rarely treated with microwave ablation (MWA). Here, we present a case of a 33-year-old female with TMNG who underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous MWA to control hyperthyroidism and reduce the size of her thyroid nodules.

CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism 3 years ago and was not treated with any anti-hyperthyroidism drugs. She refused radioactive iodine (RAI) and surgery due to worry about hypothyroidism after RAI and scarring after surgery. MWA was chosen as her treatment method due to its minimally invasive nature and guidance by ultrasound images. After systematic clinical evaluation, she underwent a twice ultrasound-guided percutaneous thyroid nodules MWA of thyroid successfully. Thyroid function of this patient began to gradually return to normal 14 weeks after the second ablation. The volume of ablated thyroid nodules was significantly reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous MWA is an effective, safe and minimally invasive method for treating TMNG. It is a viable alternative to the two traditional treatment methods.