children s health issues
Hypothyroidism in Infants and Children
Introduction
Hypothyroidism is decreased production of thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism in children usually occurs when there is a structural problem with the thyroid gland or the thyroid gland is inflamed. Symptoms depend on the child's age but include delayed growth and development. The diagnosis is based on newborn screening tests, blood tests, and imaging tests. Treatment includes giving thyroid hormone replacement. (See also Hypothyroidism in adults and The thyroid gland is an Endocrine Glands located in the neck. Endocrine glands secrete hormones into the bloodstream. The Overview of the Thyroid Gland secretes thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone controls the speed of the body's metabolism, including how fast the heart beats and how the body regulates temperature. If the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, these functions slow down. There are two types of hypothyroidism in infants and children: Congenital hypothyroidism: Present at birth Acquired hypothyroidism: Develops after birth 