DNA-synthesis of lymphocytes in hyperthyroid and enthyroid subjects. Effect of 131I therapy on hyperthyroidism

The DNA-synthesis of human lymphoid cells as estimated by the measurement of thymidine incorporation in vitro was investigated in healthy controls and in patients with various thyroid disorders before and after therapy. Hyperthyroid patients treated with 131I and surgery (euthyroid at initial blood sampling before surgery), patients with atoxic nodular goitre treated by surgery and healthy untreated control individuals comprised the material. The synthesis of DNA in lymphocytes was higher in hyperthyroid patients in comparison with euthyroid individuals, and decreased subsequent to 131I therapy in the hyperthyroid patients. No decrease was recorded in the other groups of patients. No evidence suggesting a change in the lymphocyte reactivity to thyroglobulin was found in any of the patient groups. (author)