Recombinant humane thyrotropin (RHTSH) a new aid in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid carcinoma with radio-iodine

By example of two cases a newly available tool, the recombinant humane thyr oid stimulating hormone (rhTSH) is discussed in its use as an adjunct in di agnosing and treating differentiated thyroid carcinoma with radio-iodine. This product is an easier and safe alternative to the necessary rise of TSH induced by thyroid hormone withdrawal and concurrent hypothyroidism. Altho ugh discrepancies in favour of the classical approach have been demonstrate d in some patients, the clinical relevancy of these must be weighted agains t the advantage of avoiding undesirable symptoms and possible tumour growth by the use of rhTSH. The role of rhTSH in the follow-up diagnosis and radioiodine treatment of t hyroid carcinoma will undoubtedly increase in importance.