Congenital hypothyroidism – Kretinizm

Congenital Hypothyroidism (Cretinism)

Description of congenital hypothyroidism

The thyroid gland is located in the lower part of the neck. It produces hormones, that regulate growth, brain development, and metabolism. In gipotireoze elaboration of these hormones is reduced or terminated. Наименование “врожденные” относится к заболеваниям, which are present from birth.

If this disease is left untreated, this can lead to brain damage, mental retardation and abnormal growth.

Causes of congenital hypothyroidism

In most cases, the cause is unknown cretinism. Наиболее распространенная известная причина – аномалии развития щитовидной железы. A small percentage of cases of congenital hypothyroidism are inherited.

Children, born before 40 weeks may be a temporary shortage of thyroid hormones.

Risk factors for congenital hypothyroidism

Factors, which may increase the risk of congenital hypothyroidism include:

• Treatment during pregnancy, eg, radioactive iodine therapy;
• Autoimmune disease in the mother;
• Excessive intake of iodine during pregnancy;
• Inborn errors of metabolism.

Symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism

Symptoms or signs of congenital hypothyroidism can develop for a long time and include the following:

• Puffy face;
• Rugged features;
• The sad sight;
• Thick protruding tongue;
• Poor appetite;
• Episodes of breathlessness;
• Constipation or loose stools;
• Prolonged jaundice;
• Low growth;
• Opuhshyy, bulging belly button;
• Decreased activity;
• Lethargy;
• Rare or crying hoarse cry;
• Dry brittle hair;
• Poor muscle tone;
• Cool and pale skin;
• Goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland);
• Birth defects (eg, anomaly of the heart valves;)
• Poor weight gain due to poor appetite;
• Poor growth;
• Labored breathing;
• Slow heartbeat;
• Low temperature;
• Swollen hands, Noggin and genitals.

Diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism

Thyroid is possible to determine from the data analysis of a blood. Also, to take pictures of the thyroid gland, allowing to define its status can be used the following methods:

• Thyroid Scan (using technetium);
• Nuclear imaging (scintigraphy) – может помочь определить причину врожденного гипотиреоза.

Treatment of congenital hypothyroidism

The result of the treatment will be better, If the disease is detected at an early age. It is important to start treatment before, when the brain and nervous system are fully formed. If treatment begins early, it can prevent irreversible damage. If untreated, the disease can lead to poor mental development, stunted growth.

Hypothyroidism is treated with medications, which will replace the missing hormones.

After the start of medication, We need to frequently check the levels of thyroid hormones and support of the values ​​within the normal range. If the values ​​are within normal range, no side effects or complications will not.

Prevention of congenital hypothyroidism

In most cases, the disease can not be prevented. Some stuff, which can make the mother during pregnancy, to reduce the risk:

• Avoid contact with radioactive iodine or iodine as an antiseptic during pregnancy;
• Drink plenty, but not too much iodine during pregnancy.