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The thyroid is a gland in the lower neck. It makes hormones that regulate growth, brain development, and metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a low or absent production of these hormones. Congenital means the conditions is present since birth.
If this condition is not treated it can cause damage to the brain. This can lead to mental retardation and abnormal growth.
Symptoms or signs take time to develop. The symptoms of Congenital hypothyroidism may include the following:
At birth, most infants are screened for this condition. Tests may include the following:
The outcome is best if the condition is caught early. It is important to start treatment before the brain and nervous system are fully developed. If treatment is given early, it could prevent damage.
Left untreated, the condition can lead mental and growth retardation.
Hormone replacement therapy is often done with the hormone thyroxine, given in one of the following forms:
The tablets should be given at least 30 minutes before a meal or feeding.
Once medication starts, the levels of thyroid hormones are checked often. This will help to keep the values within normal range. If values are kept within a normal range, there are no side effects or complications.
Most cases can not be prevented. The following are some things the mother can do during pregnancy to reduce the risk:
Last reviewed September 2009 by J. Thomas Megerian, MD, PhD, FAAP
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