Definition
Neonatal hypothyroidism is decreased thyroid hormone production in a newborn. In very rare cases, no thyroid hormone is produced.
If the baby was born with the condition, it is called congenital hypothyroidism. If it develops soon after birth, it is referred to as hypothyroidism acquired in the newborn period.
Symptoms
Most affected infants have few or no symptoms, because they only have a mild decrease in thyroid hormone production. However, infants with severe hypothyroidism often have a distinctive appearance. Symptoms may include:
- Puffy-appearing face
- Dull look
- Thick, protruding tongue
This appearance usually develops as the disease gets worse. The child may also have:
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Definition
Neonatal hypothyroidism is decreased thyroid hormone production in a newborn. In very rare cases, no thyroid hormone is produced.
If the baby was born with the condition, it is called congenital hypothyroidism. If it develops soon after birth, it is referred to as hypothyroidism acquired in the newborn period.
Symptoms
Most affected infants have few or no symptoms, because they only have a mild decrease in thyroid hormone production. However, infants with severe hypothyroidism often have a distinctive appearance. Symptoms may include:
- Puffy-appearing face
- Dull look
- Thick, protruding tongue
This appearance usually develops as the disease gets worse. The child may also have:
Keep reading...
Causes
Hypothyroidism in the newborn may be caused by:
- A missing or abnormally developed thyroid gland
- Pituitary gland's failure to stimulate the thyroid
- Defective or abnormal formation of thyroid hormones
Incomplete development of the thyroid is the most common defect and occurs in about 1 out of every 3,000 births. Girls are affected twice as often than boys.
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Treatment
Early diagnosis is very important. Most of the effects of hypothyroidism are easily reversible.
Replacement therapy with thyroxine is the standard treatment of hypothyroidism. Once medication starts, thyroid blood tests are regularly done to make sure levels are within a normal range.
Other Names
Cretinism; Congenital hypothyroidism; Hypothyroidism - infants
Possible Complications
- Mental retardation
- Growth retardation
- Heart problems
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Outlook (Prognosis)
Very early diagnosis generally results in a good outcome. Newborns diagnosed and treated in the first month or so generally develop normal intelligence.
Untreated, mild hypothyroidism can lead to severe mental retardation and growth retardation. Critical development of the nervous system takes place in the first few months after birth. Thyroid hormone deficiency may cause irreversible damage.
Prevention
If a pregnant women takes radioactive iodine for thyroid cancer, the thyroid gland may be destroyed in the developing fetus. Infants whose mothers have taken such medicines should be observed carefully after birth for signs of hypothyroidism.
Most states require a routine screening test to check all newborns for hypothyroidism. See also: Newborn screening tests
Exams and Tests
A physical exam may reveal:
Blood tests will be done to check thyroid function. Other tests that may be done include:
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References
Harris KB, Pass KA. Increase in congenital hypothyroidism in New York State and in the United States. Mol Genet Metab . 2007; 91(3):268-277.
