How do you explain congenital hypothyroidism?
Congenital hypothyroidism is a partial or complete loss of function of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) that affects infants from birth (congenital). The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped tissue in the lower neck.
How do you rule out congenital hypothyroidism?
If the free T4 is low and the TSH is elevated, a diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism is confirmed. The doctor may also recommend some form of imaging, such as an ultrasound exam or thyroid scan, to look for a specific cause of congenital hypothyroidism.
When should you start treating congenital hypothyroidism?
Doctors called pediatric endocrinologists treat congenital hypothyroidism. The main treatment is to give the baby thyroid hormone (levothyroxine). This condition must be treated within the first four weeks after birth or the intellectual disability may be permanent.
Why does congenital hypothyroid cause umbilical hernia?
If the fetal thyroid hormone deficiency is severe because of complete absence (athyreosis) of the gland, physical features may include a larger anterior fontanel, persistence of a posterior fontanel, an umbilical hernia, and a large tongue (macroglossia).
What is the treatment for congenital hypothyroidism?
Doctors called pediatric endocrinologists treat congenital hypothyroidism. The main treatment is to give the baby thyroid hormone (levothyroxine). This condition must be treated within the first four weeks after birth or the intellectual disability may be permanent.
What are signs of congenital hypothyroidism?
Signs of cretinism or congenital hypothyroidism in a newborn include: lack of weight gain. stunted growth. fatigue, lethargy. poor feeding. thickened facial features.
What are the causes of elevated TSH in a newborn?
Common causes of elevated TSH in newborns. congenital hypothyroidism. Transient hypothyroidism due to neonatal illness. Prematurity. Iodine excess or deficiency. Improper screening technique. Incorrect normal result intervals for age. Maternal medication or maternal thyroid disease.