Question - What is the incidence and epidemiology of amiodarone induced hypothyroidism (AIH)?
Answer - The cited article notes “The incidence of AIH varies widely, it ranges from 6% in countries with low iodine intake to 13% in countries with a high dietary iodine intake. The risk is higher in female and elderly patients. Females with positive thyroglobulin or anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies have a 13-fold higher incidence of AIH when compared to males without thyroid antibodies. AIH occurs usually early after initiation of amiodarone treatment, is uncommon after the first 18 months. It occurs independently of the daily or cumulative dose of amiodarone.” (Hawatmeh A et al. Amiodarone induced myxedema coma: Two case reports and literature review. 2018 Heart & Lung 47:429-431)