Congenital Hypothyroidism usually results when a baby is born without a thyroid gland, or the thyroid gland does not develop completely, but there are many other causes of this disorder.  There is not always a clear reason why a baby is born with Congenital Hypothyroidism, however a genetic mutation can be the reason.  Iodine Deficiency can also play a part as well.  It is important the mother passes enough iodine onto the foetus during its development.

Australian statistics show, 70 babies are born each year with Congenital Hypothyroidism, with 1 in 3000 to 3500 births.

Newborn detection of Congenital Hypothyroidism is determined by way of the Newborn Heel Prick Test. This test is usually done on Day 2-3 of life and is essential to determine genetic disorders in the newborn.

The Heel Prick Test includes the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test which will determine your newborn’s thyroid health status. This test should be performed routinely on all newborn babies throughout Australia. Without this test, a thyroid disorder could easily be overlooked.

Congenital Hypothyroidism is treated the same as hypothyroidism in children or adults, with thyroid replacement hormone, Levothyroxine. It is crucial for these babies to be diagnosed within a few days of birth by a newborn screening (heel prick) test as any delay can lead to loss of IQ. As babies grow, monitoring is necessary to adjust Levothyroxine dosage and to monitor growth and development. Ensuring ongoing Thyroid Pathology tests are performed in the correct manner is essential to ensure the dose of Levothyroxine is adequate.

Children who have been diagnosed with Congenital Hypothyroidism are treated by a Paediatric Endocrinologist with regular monitoring and testing through their developing years.