Congenital Hypothyroidism: Facts, Facets & Therapy

Abstract

Background: Thyroid hormone (T3) is essential for normal development of children enabling brain development and somatic growth. However, certain individuals are genetically predisposed with insufficient or no thyroid hormones. Such a condition is termed congenital hypothyroidism (CH).

Objective: In the present review, a brief back ground about congenital hypothyroidism, factors associated with CH leading to thyroid dysgenesis and thyroid dyshormonogenesis is elaborated. Additionally, the guidelines for available treatment options, management and follow-up required for patients diagnosed with CH are discussed. Treatment options in terms of treatment initiation and dosage of hormone replacement are discussed.

Conclusion: Though CH is considered as the most common neonatal metabolic disorder, it is also easily treatable compared to other metabolic or hereditary diseases. The outcome of CH treatment depends on the compliance of parents early in life and by patients themselves during later part of life.

Keywords: Congenital hypothyroidism; Thyroid hormone (T3); hormone therapy; levothyroxine; thyroid gland; transcription factors.