Congenital Hypothyroidism

Most infants with this combination of results have normal thyroid function and subsequently demonstrate normal T4 levels. However, a small percentage do in fact have thyroid abnormalities; clinical judgment is thus required in determining the timing and extent of follow-up.

Recommend reading the letter sent from the health department regarding conditions to consider in your assessment of child and determining follow-up.

For more information, refer to the health department (ADH) letter that was faxed to you. Call 501-364-4050 to speak with the Newborn Screening Coordinator or page at 501-364-1100.

This infant may have congenital hypothyroidism.

• Steps
  • Contact parent/guardian to check on the health of the infant.
    • Affected newborns may appear normal up to three months of age.
      
      
• Signs/Symptoms of hypothyroidism (If symptomatic consult wit pediatric endocrinologist)
  • Delayed passing of stools
  • Jaundice
  • Feeding problems
  • Excessive sleep
  • Hypotonia
  • Pallor
  • Dry cool skin
  • Umbilical hernia
  • Swelling of the tongue
  • Periorbital edema
  • Delayed closure of fontanels
    
    
• Do these tests:
  • Obtain serum free T4 and TSH
  • Consult with pediatric endocrinologist if serum results abnormal

For more information, refer to the health department (ADH) letter that was faxed to you and information at the ADH website. Call 501-364-4050 to speak with the Newborn Screening Coordinator or page at 501-364-1100.

This infant may have congenital hypothyroidism.

• Steps
  • Contact parent/guardian TODAY to check on the health of the infant.
    • Affected newborns may appear normal up to three months of age.
    • If symptomatic, promptly do serum free T4 and TSH testing AND consult with pediatric endocrinologist
    • Do these tests:
      • Serum free T4
      • Serum TSH
        
        
• Signs/Symptoms of hypothyroidism
  • Delayed passing of stools
  • Jaundice
  • Feeding problems
  • Excessive sleep
  • Hypotonia
  • Pallor
  • Dry cool skin
  • Umbilical hernia
  • Swelling of the tongue
  • Periorbital edema
  • Delayed closure of fontanels.

For questions about clinical evaluation, testing and follow up, please call 501-364-4050 to speak with the Newborn Screening Coordinator or page at 501-364-1100.

For more information, refer to the health department (ADH) letter that was faxed to you and information at the ADH website.  Call 501-364-4050 to speak with the Newborn Screening Coordinator
Page at 501-364-1100.