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Congenital hypothyroidism in Iran
Arash Ordookhani1, Parvin Mirmiran, Reza Najafi
1Endocrine Research Center, Teleghani Hospital, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|September 27, 2003
Summary
Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) screening in Iran revealed a high incidence of 1:914 live births. Parental consanguinity significantly increased CH risk, suggesting it as a key causative factor.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Iran established a congenital hypothyroidism (CH) screening program in 1998 after addressing iodine deficiency.
- This study reports descriptive findings from the initial phase of this national screening initiative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the initial findings of the congenital hypothyroidism (CH) screening program implemented in Iran.
- To identify potential risk factors contributing to the incidence of CH in the screened population.
Main Methods:
- Cord blood samples from 20,107 neonates across 9 facilities were collected between February 1998 and June 2001.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were measured; values ≥ 20 microU/mL prompted recall for CH confirmation using serum TSH and T4 levels.
Main Results:
- A total of 22 neonates were diagnosed with CH, resulting in an incidence of 1:914 live births.
- Parental consanguinity was observed in 15 of 21 CH cases, with a significantly higher odds ratio (6.9) for CH in consanguineous marriages.
- Thyroid dysgenesis was identified in 10 neonates (1:2011 births).
Conclusions:
- Parental consanguinity is a significant risk factor and potential causative agent for the observed high incidence of CH.
- Iodine excess may also contribute to the elevated rates of congenital hypothyroidism in the region.