subject: About Hyperthyroidism In Children [print this page] Different from congenital hypothyroidism, acquired or clinical hypothyroidism is not screened for and is very often hereditary. It can occur in a child or adult at anytime in their life. Also known as Autoimmune Thyroiditis, acquired hypothyroidism is difficult to diagnosis as it is very slow moving.
Diagnosis happens only when a person is symptomatic. By this time, the disorder has been with them for some time, months or possibly years. In a child, a bone age test can help in determining the onset of the disorder.
Hypothyroidism is more commonly diagnosed in infants and children. Sometimes hyperthyroidism is also seen in very young patients. As this disorder happens very rarely, there are no standard screening procedures to detect an overactive thyroid gland in newborns.
In families with a history of hyperthyroidism, congenital hyperthyroidism can be diagnosed in newborns, infants, and young children. Like hypothyroidism, this disorder poses a grave threat to the infant's normal development if left untreated.
If the fetal heartbeat rate is abnormally fast, further tests may be conducted to determine whether the fetus' developing endocrine system is growing at a normal rate. In some situations, hyperthyroidism can be detected before birth. Ultrasound images can be used to check for abnormal goiter-like growths around the thyroid gland, as well. Similarly, the thyroid health and hormone levels of the mother are also investigated as a potential cause of the problem.
Lumps, growths, or inflammation in the thyroid region; larger than normal appetite and/or food intake; failure to gain weight, prominent, bulging eyes, increased heartbeat, high blood pressure, irritability and nervousness; frequent fevers; high body temperature; rapid breathing, and yellowing of the eyes and skin are the signs and symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism in infants.
Proper thyroid function is essential for normal growth and development in infancy and childhood. It is very essential to carefully detect the thyroid disorder in young patients. Don't hesitate to consult your doctor if you are worried that your infant or young child may be experiencing thyroid problems. Also, make sure to check back each week for more of the latest thyroid health news.
by: Simon J Pearson
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