Patient's question:
I received a phone call from the hospital, suspecting that the newborn has congenital hypothyroidism, and I am very worried.Doctor's answer:
I haven't encountered this situation before, but I can analyze it with you. Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a common intellectual disability in children. In the early stages, there are no obvious symptoms, but once symptoms appear, they will be irreversible. It is also known as cretinism. Late detection of this condition has a significant impact on a child's intellectual development. This disease can lead to short stature and intellectual disability. In medicine, it is generally believed that if it is detected within 2 months and treated promptly, lifelong medication can be taken, and intellectual development will be largely normal. If it is discovered after 10 months, the IQ can only reach 80% of normal levels after treatment. If it is detected after 2 years, intellectual delays will be irreversible. The incidence rate of congenital hypothyroidism is approximately 1 in 5,000.Treatment:
1. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is used.
2. Undergo standardized treatment for 2-3 years, followed by a 1-month drug-free period, and then a follow-up of thyroid function, thyroid ultrasound, or thyroid isotope scanning. If it is temporary CH, the medication can be stopped and regular follow-ups scheduled. If it is permanent hypothyroidism, lifelong treatment is required.
3. Regular assessments of physical and intellectual development should be conducted.