A prospective longitudinal study on endocrine dysfunction following treatment of laryngeal or hypopharyngeal carcinoma

The incidence rate of hypothyroidism after treatment for laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer in this largest prospective study is high (47.4%), especially after combination treatment. Based on the intervals between treatment and the development of hypothyroidism, thyroid testing before treatment, every 3 months during the first year, every 6 months the second year and annually thereafter is recommended as screening procedure.