Patient's question:
Just now the hospital called to inform that a follow-up test is required. What should I do about the abnormal thyroxine result from the newborn screening?Doctor's answer:
Newborn screening primarily aims to identify congenital hypothyroidism and phenylketonuria. It is essential to implement retesting. Based on the results of the retest, medication may need to be started for the baby if necessary. The earlier the treatment begins, the better the outcome, mainly to prevent permanent damage to the baby's nervous system. If there is hyperthyroidism, symptoms such as protruding eyes and a fast heart rate may occur, and the child's thyroid function should be actively suppressed.