Regional Differences in the Management of Thyroid Eye Disease: Results from an International Clinical Practice Survey of Endocrinologists.

Abstract

Background: Over the past several decades, there have been indications of potential shifts in the diagnostic strategies and treatment of patients with Graves' disease (GD) and thyroid eye disease (TED). The objective of this study was to evaluate current practices in managing GD when complicated by moderate-to-severe TED worldwide. Methods: We recently reported results from a global online survey of endocrinologists comparing the management of GD in different scenarios. The current analysis focuses on regional differences in the diagnosis and treatment of GD when complicated by TED. Results: A total of 1252 respondents from 85 countries completed the survey. Regarding the initial diagnostic and treatment measures, there were no differences among the various geographical regions. Regarding the treatment of moderate-to-severe TED, the use of sodium selenite was higher in Europe (66.5%) and Oceania (60%) compared to other regions (p < 0.001). North American respondents were more likely to recommend teprotumumab and less likely to use glucocorticoids (p < 0.001). When comparing the treatment options for GD in patients with TED, although prolonged use of antithyroid drugs (ATD) remained the first choice in all regions, respondents from Europe, North America, and Oceania were more likely to recommend thyroidectomy than those from other regions (p < 0.001). Ophthalmologists, rather than endocrinologists, would more often be responsible for prescribing advanced medical therapy for TED in North America, Oceania, and Africa, while endocrinologists would have primary responsibility in other regions of the globe. Conclusions: Although there are regional differences, respondents generally employ the recommended diagnostic tools, treatments, and a multidisciplinary approach suggested by current clinical practice guidelines. However, there were examples of deviations from current guidance from professional societies.