Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is not functioning properly due to a variety of reasons, or the thyroid gland is not fully developed so that the child cannot produce enough thyroid hormones on its own to meet the child’s physiologic needs. Hypothyroidism in newborns can usually be controlled with levothyroxine, but some babies cannot be cured.
Hypothyroidism can lead to mental retardation and stunted growth, so once neonatal hypothyroidism is diagnosed, hormone replacement therapy must be given promptly. If the optimal time for replacement therapy is missed, children may be left with permanent mental impairment or growth problems.
Levothyroxine is the treatment of choice in replacement therapy. Infants and young children who are supplemented with thyroxine preparations can grow and develop normally, but thyroid function needs to be reviewed regularly and the dose of medication needs to be adjusted if necessary. Parents of hypothyroidism are advised to bring their babies to the doctor in time for targeted treatment under the doctor’s guidance. To avoid delays in the condition, resulting in adverse consequences.