children s health issues
Hypothyroidism in Infants and Children
Congenital hypothyroidism
Congenital hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not develop or function normally before birth (see Hypothyroidism in the Newborn ). This type of hypothyroidism occurs in about 1 in 1,700 to 3,500 live births. Most cases occur spontaneously, but about 10 to 20% are inherited. About half of cases of congenital hypothyroidism occur because the thyroid gland is missing, underdeveloped, or developed in the wrong place. Less often, the gland has developed normally but does not produce thyroid hormone correctly. Congenital hypothyroidism can occur if the mother did not have enough iodine in her diet while pregnant ( Iodine Deficiency ), because a woman's body needs more iodine when she is pregnant. Iodine deficiency is rare in areas of the world where iodine is added to table salt but is more common in areas where people do not get enough iodine in their diet. Another rare cause is central hypothyroidism. Central hypothyroidism is caused by structural problems that occur in the pituitary gland while it is developing (see Rarely, drugs that are used to treat thyroid disorders or substances in foods cross the placenta and temporarily cause congenital hypothyroidism. 