Abstract
Incidence of thyroid gland functional disorders is more frequent in women than in men (min. 8:1), whereas hyperfunction is usually connected with bothering symptoms, reduced function takes place often unnoticed. According to recent epidemiological studies the undiagnosed dysfunctions the prevalence reaches 6-7%.
Goiter used to be mainly consequence of iodine deficiency. In the Czech Republic the iodine deficiency was solved in the fifties years of previous century, so we find goiter only in the older population.
Thyroid hyperfunction in senior population is usually resulting from nodular goiter or toxic independent adenoma rather then from Grave's disease. Treatment of such conditions is necessary, negative impacts on heart and bones are known, good experiences with radioiodine treatment predestine this method for application mainly in older population.
Patients with hypothyroidisms must be treated and the method is the same as for young people, but it is important to start with minimal dose of levothyroxine and increase slowly. For very old seniors it is sometimes collaboration with the family necessary, mainly to control the exact dosing and application of the medication as well.
The incidence of thyroid carcinoma is rising, operations are possible also for seniors, but always by specialized team of surgeons.