Updates in the Management of Graves Disease in Children

Abstract

Graves disease (GD) is the primary cause of hyperthyroidism in children. The standard management options-namely, antithyroid drugs (ATD), radioactive iodine, and surgery-have not changed for many years. Although ATD therapy is often the first-line treatment for pediatric patients, the low likelihood of spontaneous remission means that most children will require a more permanent solution. Recent clinical trials and systematic reviews have shed light on the long-term outcomes of ATD therapy, radioactive iodine, and surgical interventions in managing pediatric GD. Additionally, novel therapies aimed at B-cells or the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, both implicated in the pathogenesis of GD, are under investigation. However, their definitive role in treating childhood GD has yet to be established. This review will cover the latest developments in the treatment of childhood GD, including information on emerging targeted therapies.