Congenital hypothyroidism

Congenital hypothyroidism is a relatively uncommon condition that occurs in newborns. Congenital hypothyroidism can occur due the mother being exposed to radioiodine and anti-thyroid medication, but more likely, it is a hereditary condition. Girls are twice as likely to be born with congenital hypothyroidism as boys are. It affects approximately one child in every 4,000 births.

Congenital hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not function properly to produce adequate levels of hormones that are required to keep the body running smoothly. The functioning of the body’s growth, intelligence, metabolism, energy, and temperature are dependent upon the thyroid hormone.

The signs and symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism are poor eating with little or no interest in eating, jaundice, little crying, constipation, and/or excessive sleeping. These symptoms are first noticed in the newborn, but if it is not diagnosed quickly it can cause permanent damage. Screening for newborns for hypothyroidism is essential and done easily using a simple blood test taken from the infant’s heel. An x-ray of the baby’s legs may also be taken.

A child with congenital hypothyroidism is known to have large tummies, large heads, and large tongues. They also tend to have umbilical hernias. Whereas a healthy baby’s fontanel will close, a baby that suffers with congenital hypothyroidism will have a larger soft spot on the top of the head that closes more slowly. They may also develop respiratory difficulties. The blood count, heart rate, and the temperature of a child with this disorder will also be abnormally low.

A child afflicted with congenital hypothyroidism has a slower than average physical development. Their muscles tend to be more flaccid. Their stature is smaller than average. Their teeth and other milestones are delayed. The hands of a child with congenital hypothyroidism are short and wide. Delays in mental development are also noted. Treatment is necessary as soon as possible for the child to have good development physically, including the areas of speech.

In order for the child to grow healthy and normal, treatment has to be initiated as soon as possible. Treatment protocols include the administration of thyroid hormones, which are given consistently. The child will be seen in follow up approximately every three months to monitor their condition. When they are approximately 3 years of age their levels of thyroid hormone should level off.

It is not usually possible to prevent congenital hypothyroidism. Complications, such as delayed mentality and other conditions, however, can be prevented if diagnosis and treatment is put into action as soon as possible. Therefore, it is important to screen all newborns as soon as possible to rule out any conditions that can be helped with immediate treatment.

RESOURCES

US National Library of Medicine: Neonatal Hypothyroidism

Genetics Home Reference: Congenital Hypothyroidism

Illinois Department of Public Health: Congenital Hypothyroidism

Michigan Department of Community Health: What is Congenital Hypothyroidism