Hypothyroidism

Question 1

Effect of hypothyroidism in childhood development…

Answer 1

…leads to cretinism -low mental activity Due to failure in CNS development

Question 2

Plasma Levels seen in hypothyroidism

Answer 2

low T3 low T4 ^ HIGH TSH

Question 3

Most common cause of hypothyroidism

Answer 3

Hashimoto’s Disease

Question 4

What causes Hashimoto’s Disease?

Answer 4

Autoimmune… -destruction of thyroid follicles OR -production of antibody that blocks TSH receptors

Question 5

Treatment for hypothyroidism

Answer 5

Oral thyroxine Dose adjusted on- changes in TSH levels + change in signs/symptoms

Question 6

Other causes of hypothyroidism

Answer 6

Post surgery- IE too much cut out (to treat hyper) Anti-thyroid drugs Inadequate dietary iodine

Question 7

Signs/Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Answer 7

Cold intolerance Reduced BMR Weight gain Brachycardia Constipation Tired/poor conc./poor memory Mixed a

Question 8

What plasma levels may be present due to hypothyroidism- Hashimotos?

Answer 8

Question 9

Why would chhildhood hypothyroidism lead to low mental acitivty/cretinism?

Answer 9

The CNS is very sensitive to T3/T4 levels, T3/T4 increase myelination of axons and TF speed of synaptic transmission and mental activity. TF lack of T3/T4 leads to less myelination and less mental development