Hypothyroidism in Infants, Children, and TeensTopic OverviewSevere hypothyroidism in infancy results in slow growth, significant intellectual disability, and developmental delays. Symptoms are seldom apparent at birth. The age at which they appear and their severity depends on how well the infant's thyroid gland works. Symptoms in infants
Infants are treated with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement. An infant treated for hypothyroidism within the first month of life grows and develops normally. Treatment must be continued for life. If hypothyroidism occurs after age 3, intellectual disability usually does not occur. But untreated childhood hypothyroidism usually delays a child's physical growth and sexual development. Symptoms in children and teens
Children and teens also need lifelong treatment with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement. With adequate treatment, a child will catch up in height and weight to healthy children of the same age. Related InformationCredits
ByHealthwise Staff Current as ofMay 3, 2017
Current as of: May 3, 2017 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology |
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