Saudi Med J
-
Comparative Study
Treatment of Graves' hyperthyroidism--prognostic factors for outcome.
To determine whether clinical and biochemical features of Graves' disease at presentation predict response to medical and radioiodine treatment. ⋯ In patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism, radioiodine treatment is associated with higher success rate than antithyroid drugs. A dose of 13-15 mCi (481-555 MBq) seems to be practical and effective, and should be considered as first line therapy. Patients with high free T3 concentration and, those with ophthalmopathy at presentation were more likely to fail radioiodine treatment. A higher dose of radioiodine may be advisable in such patients.
-
To examine the changes in emergency department (ED) utilization over a 3-year period and identify the factors that affect utilization. ⋯ Emergency department utilization increased during the study period, with almost no change in the proportions for triage category. The numbers of patients requiring hospital admission increased, as the length of their stay. Nearly 60% of emergency visits are for CTAS IV and V care. There were significant patients with multiple visits to ED. We recommend the strengthening of the primary health care in our institution and a designated "Fast Track" in ED for the expeditious management of low acuity patients.