The term Jod-Basedow is used to describe iodine-induced hyperthyroidism that is more common in subjects with pre-existing thyroid disease, such as the presence of a nodular goitre, but can also occur in individuals with an apparently normal thyroid. It should be suspected in any patient presenting with hyperthyroidism that is not due to Graves' disease, although the source of the iodine excess may be difficult to identify. The condition is more common in iodine- deficient areas where nodular goitre is frequent. It is difficult to treat because of the large stores of preformed hormone in the gland, and may require treatment with corticosteroids and perchlorate along with antithyroid drugs.
