Question
Can a newborn undergo thyroid function tests 12 days after birth? The baby, born to a mother with hypothyroidism, had thyroid function tests done 12 days after birth (the results were normal). Now that the baby is three months old, is it necessary to have another test?
Answer
Thyroid function tests are primarily used to rule out congenital hypothyroidism, a genetic metabolic disorder. Early detection and treatment can minimize the impact on the child. Moreover, receiving vaccinations does not affect thyroid function. The low fever that may occur after vaccination is a normal response to vaccination.