Question
A newborn weighs 3.4 kg and is 50 cm tall. The newborn screening results show hypothyroidism with a TSH level of 10.5. The child’s appetite, bowel movements, and sleep are normal. There are no symptoms such as pale or thickened skin, multiple wrinkles, dandruff, thick and large lips that often protrude, mouth that is often open with drooling, pale or waxy yellow complexion, or sunken bridge of the nose. How can congenital hypothyroidism be diagnosed, prevented, and treated?
Answer
Congenital hypothyroidism, also known as cretinism, is a type of hypothyroidism where the dysfunction begins in the fetal or neonatal period. Affected children often exhibit low body temperature, reduced crying and smiling, decreased activity, slow responses, and lack of appetite. There may be no apparent physical or intellectual development disabilities. If not detected and treated promptly, it may lead to dwarfism and intellectual impairment in children. Early detection and treatment with thyroid hormone can ensure normal physical and intellectual development in children.