Agranulocytosis and use of Methimazole: report of two cases

Abstract

Thyroid hormones are essential for growth, neuronal development, reproduction and the regulation of energy metabolism. Thyroid diseases are a global health problem that can substantially affect people's well-being and health. Thyroid dysfunction is common, easily identified and treatable, but if left undiagnosed and untreated, it can have
profound adverse effects. The prevalence of hyperthyroidism varies from 0.2% to 1.3% in parts of the world with sufficient iodine intake. Thyrotoxicosis has several etiologies, manifestations, and potential therapies. Appropriate treatment requires an accurate diagnosis and is influenced by coexisting medical conditions as well as patient preference. Among the treatment alternatives, one of the most used is oral antithyroid drugs, methimazole is the drug available in our environment. Agranulocytopenia secondary to methimazole use is a rare but serious and potentially fatal adverse effect. The report of two cases of patients with hyperthyroidism who developed agranulocytosis and who received treatment with methimazole is presented.