Perinatal endocrinology: common endocrine disorders in the sick and premature newborn

Sharon J Hyman1, Yeray Novoa, Ian Holzman

  • 1Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1616, New York, NY 10029, USA. sharon.hyman@mssm.edu

Insights

Endocrine disorders frequently affect infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), particularly those who are premature or critically ill. This review covers common endocrine conditions and their current management strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Critical Care Pediatrics

Background:

  • Endocrine disorders are prevalent in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) populations.
  • Association with prematurity, low birth weight (LBW), very low birth weight (VLBW), and small for gestational age (SGA) infants is common.
  • Critically ill and stressed neonates are at higher risk for endocrine dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the most common endocrine disorders encountered in neonates within the NICU setting.
  • To summarize current knowledge and management approaches for these conditions.
  • To provide a resource for clinicians managing endocrine issues in critically ill newborns.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of common neonatal endocrine disorders.
  • Synthesis of current evidence on diagnosis and management.
  • Focus on conditions frequently seen in the NICU.

Main Results:

  • Common endocrine disorders include adrenal insufficiency, thyroid dysfunction, and glucose metabolism abnormalities.
  • Management strategies vary based on the specific disorder and the infant's clinical status.
  • Early recognition and intervention are crucial for optimal outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Endocrine disorders represent a significant challenge in neonatal intensive care.
  • Effective management requires a thorough understanding of pathophysiology and current therapeutic guidelines.
  • Multidisciplinary care is essential for addressing the complex needs of these infants.

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