Subclinical hypothyroidism in childhood

MJ O'Grady; D Cody

doi:10.1136/adc.2009.181800

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Home
> Volume 96, Issue 3
> Article

Arch Dis Child

2011;96:280-284 doi:10.1136/adc.2009.181800

Review

Subclinical hypothyroidism in childhood

MJ O'Grady,
D Cody

Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Our Ladys Childrens Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland

Correspondence to Dr D Cody, Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Our Ladys Childrens Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland; Declan.cody{at}olchc.ie

Accepted 23 January 2010
Published Online First 22 April 2010

Abstract

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) is defined as an elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in association with a normal total or free thyroxine (T4) or triiodothyronine (T3). It is frequently encountered in both neonatology and general paediatric practice; however, its clinical significance is widely debated. Currently there is no broad consensus on the investigation and treatment of these patients; specifically who to treat and what cut-off level of TSH should be used. This paper reviews the available evidence regarding investigation, treatments and outcomes reported for childhood SH.