Endocrinology Flashcards
1
Q
Why is thyroid hormone particularly important in neonates and children
A
- development and functioning of the brain and body
2
Q
How is congenital hypothyroidism picked up?
A
Screening in the newborn blood spot screening test (heel prick)
3
Q
What is congenital hypothyroidism?
A
Born with under active thyroid - can be due to agenesis, underdeveloped thyroid, ectopic or when it does not produce enough hormone (dyshormonogenesis).
4
Q
How will someone with congenital hypothyroidism present?
A
- prolonged neonatal jaundice
- poor feeding
- constipation
- increased sleeping
- reduced activity
- slowed growth and development
5
Q
What is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in children?
A
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune)
6
Q
What are the antibodies associated with Hasmitoto’s thyroiditis?
A
- antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO)
- antithyroglobulin antibodies
7
Q
What are some symptoms of acquired hypothyroidism?
A
- fatigue
- low energy
- poor growth
- weight gain
- poor school performance
- constipation
- dry skin and hair loss
8
Q
How is hypothyroidism managed?
A
- Levothyroxine orally once a day - dose depends on blood test levels, age etc. Start straight away.
- Explain that it is a long term condition and importance of compliance
9
Q
What investigations are done for hypothyroidism?
A
- TFTs - TSH (free) and T3 and T4
- thyroid ultrasound
- thyroid antibody testing
