Thyroid hormones (TH) regulate growth, nervous system myelination, metabolism, and physiologic functions in nearly every organ system. Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is one of the most common endocrinopathies in children and has potentially devastating neurologic and developmental consequences. The etiology and clinical manifestations of hypothyroidism in children differ from adults. And hence, pediatric medical care requires a detailed understanding of thyroid function and dysfunction in children. The perinatal risk factors include female sex, preterm birth, low birth weight, postmature birth, additional birth abnormalities, and being delivered in multiple births. In countries where newborn screening is practiced, CH is detected after birth through screening tests. It aids in determining the underlying cause, though some patients may be able to start treatment without these tests. Early detection and treatment prevent irreversible and permanent nervous system damage. Thus, in addition to exploring the development of CH, this article has also covered the epidemiological data, clinical aspects, and management stemming from pediatric hypothyroidism.
Keywords: congenital hypothyroidism; congenital malformations; cretinism; extrathyroidal; hypothyroidism; levothyroxine; pediatric hypothyroidism; primary hypothyroidism; thyroid; thyroid dysgenesis.
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