[Fetal hypothyroidism: a complication of amniofetography. Apropos of 3 cases]

Abstract

The authors present three cases of fetal hypothyroidism following amniofetography, after they have reviewed the technique and complications of this procedure. (For outlining the fetus by injecting radio-opaque iodides into the amniotic sac). These are cases of hypothyroidism in the fetus caused by overdosage with iodides. The fetal thyroid is blocked by the large quantity of iodine which is necessary for amniofetography. The indications then for amniofetography should be reviewed. The only valid indication that remains is for the diagnosis of neurological malformations and especially spina bifida. Whenever amniofetography has been carried out the newborn should be assessed for thyroid function routinely.