Transient Congenital Hypothyroidism

What is Transient Congenital Hypothyroidism

Transient congenital hypothyroidism is a condition in which the baby is born with a low level of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism). Although the baby is born with the condition (congenital), it is often temporary (transient).

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. It produces chemicals (hormones) that are needed for proper body function. These hormones help the body use energy and regulate body temperature. They are also important for normal function of the heart, muscles, and brain.

What are the causes?

The cause of this condition is not known.

What increases the risk?

A baby may be more likely to have this condition if:

  • He or she was born early (premature birth).
  • The mother has too much or too little iodine in her system. Iodine is needed to make thyroid hormones.
  • The mother is taking medicine for a thyroid condition. The medicine can pass through her blood to the baby.
  • The mother has proteins in her blood due to a thyroid disease.

What are the signs or symptoms?

There are no symptoms of this condition.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition may be diagnosed based on routine blood tests done at birth (screening tests). Based on the results of these screening tests, your baby may have additional blood tests to check for thyroid hormone levels.

How is this treated?

This condition may be treated with:

  • Thyroid hormone replacement therapy. In infants, the hormone may be mixed with breast milk or formula.

At 3 years of age:

  • Hormone replacement therapy is stopped, and thyroid hormone levels are checked.
    • Hormone therapy may be discontinued if thyroid hormone levels are normal.
    • Treatment with replacement therapy should be restarted if thyroid hormone levels continue to be low.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Give over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your child’s health care provider.
  • Your child’s growth and development will be measured on a regular basis.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your child’s health care provider. Your child will need blood tests to make sure that his or her thyroid hormone levels have returned to normal.

Contact a health care provider if your child:

  • Is not feeding well.
  • Is not sleeping well.
  • Has constipation often.

Summary

  • Transient congenital hypothyroidism is a condition in which the baby is born with a low level of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism). Although the baby is born with the condition (congenital), it is often temporary (transient).
  • This condition may be treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
  • Your child’s growth and development will be measured on a regular basis.
  • At 3 years of age, hormone replacement therapy is stopped, and thyroid hormone levels are checked. Hormone therapy may be discontinued if thyroid hormone levels are normal. Treatment with replacement therapy should be restarted if thyroid hormone levels continue to be low.
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