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Treatment and the treatment process

Leukemia + hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) usually does not stand in the way of leukaemia treatment, but it is monitored.

Last updated: ~1 min read
The thyroid gland
Figure 1.The thyroid gland — Leukemia + hypothyroidism

01Short answer

In hypothyroidism a thyroid hormone tablet is taken. Some medicines and supplements (for example iron, calcium, stomach remedies) can affect its absorption, so check the timing with your doctor or pharmacist. Some targeted medicines and immunotherapy can change thyroid function, so TSH may be checked from time to time.

02Simple explanation

Tell both doctors. Your haematologist and your thyroid doctor.

Medicine list. Bring it to every visit.

Your own medicines. Do not stop them unless told.

Symptoms. Report changes early.

03Scientific explanation

TSH: the main thyroid function test.

Absorption: some substances reduce absorption of the thyroid tablet.

04What happens in the body?

Hypothyroidism and leukaemia

People with hypothyroidism can receive leukaemia treatment; the plan is simply adjusted.

What may change

Treatment and hypothyroidism can affect each other, so check-ups may be more frequent.

A morning tablet
Figure 2.A morning tablet — Leukemia + hypothyroidism

Two teams together

When your haematologist and thyroid doctor share information, treatment is safer.

A TSH test
Figure 3.A TSH test — Leukemia + hypothyroidism

05Treatment with hypothyroidism

Four steps.

Tell — Both doctors.1TellBoth doctors.
List — Medicines.2ListMedicines.
Checks — As planned.3ChecksAs planned.
Symptoms — Report early.4SymptomsReport early.

06What to watch for

SignWhat it may beWhat to do
Severe tiredness, feeling coldThyroid changeTell your team
Palpitations, sweatingThyroid changeTell your team
Starting a new supplementEffect on absorptionAsk first

07Key terms

Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid.
TSH
A thyroid function test.
Haematologist
Doctor for blood diseases.
Medicine list
All medicines and supplements.

08Key points

  • Inform both doctors.
  • Keep your medicine list updated.
  • Do not stop your own medicines yourself.
  • Ask before any new medicine.
  • For food, see the general rules (“Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”).
  • Keep your check-ups.

09Frequently asked questions

Is my tiredness from leukaemia or the thyroid?

It can be both; tests show the difference.

Is leukaemia treatment possible?

Often yes; the plan may be adjusted.

Should I keep my own medicines?

Yes, unless a doctor says otherwise.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is my tiredness from leukaemia or the thyroid?

  2. Is leukaemia treatment possible?

  3. Should I keep my own medicines?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus. Hypothyroidism
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Drug Interactions: What You Should Know
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
  4. American Cancer Society. Infections in People with Cancer
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Monoclonal Antibodies
  6. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
  7. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Liver Function Tests
  8. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Electrolyte Panel
  9. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Drugs Approved for Leukemia
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Diarrhea and Cancer Treatment
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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