Research
Thyroid functions of neonates with Down syndrome
1 Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, 38039, Turkey
2 Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, 07070, Turkey
Italian Journal of Pediatrics 2012, 38:44 doi:10.1186/1824-7288-38-44
Published: 17 September 2012Abstract
Background
We aimed to evaluate thyroid functions and volumes and detect abnormalities in 80 neonates with Down syndrome.
Methods
Data about free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, thyroid stimulating hormone, thyroglobulin and urinary iodine levels, and ultrasonographic thyroid volume were collected.
Results
Abnormal thyroid function tests were detected in 53.8% of the patients (n = 50) and these were hyperthyrotropinemia, hypothyroidism, iodine deficiency and iodine overload in 32, 2, 12 and 4 patients, respectively. Thyroid volumes were assessed in 36 patients and a total of 17 abnormalities were detected (7 hypoplasia, 3 agenesis and 7 goiter). In patients with hyperthyrotropinemia mean thyroid volume was significantly greater and mean TSH was significantly higher when compared to the patients without hyperthyrotropinemia.
Conclusion
Neonatal screening by thyroid function tests in Down syndrome should be performed to prevent further intellectual deterioration and improve overall development. In the neonatal period, the risk of hyperthyrotropinemia should be kept in mind.
