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Author Spotlight: Integrating Ultrasound Imaging with Biochemical Markers for Thyroid Disease Diagnosis
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Ten-year longitudinal study of thyroid function in children with Down's syndrome
Lorenzo Iughetti1, Barbara Predieri, Patrizia Bruzzi
1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
Hormone Research in Paediatrics
|July 12, 2014
Summary
Thyroid dysfunction is common in children with Down syndrome, increasing significantly by age 10. Early and regular monitoring is crucial for timely detection and management of these thyroid issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Thyroidology
Background:
- The natural history of thyroid function in children with Down syndrome is not well understood.
- Down syndrome is associated with an increased risk of thyroid dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental trajectory of thyroid function in children with Down syndrome.
- To determine the incidence and progression of thyroid dysfunction from birth to 10 years of age.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 145 children with Down syndrome, with annual thyroid function assessments from birth to 10 years.
- Statistical analysis using heteroskedastic binary and ordinary logistic regression for repeated measures to assess the relationship between time and thyroid function.
Main Results:
- Congenital hypothyroidism was present in 7% of cases.
- The probability of acquired thyroid dysfunction rose from 30% at birth to 49% by age 10 (p < 0.001).
- Hypothyroidism incidence increased from 7% to 24% by age 10 (p < 0.001), with anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies being a strong predictor.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid dysfunction significantly increases during childhood development in individuals with Down syndrome.
- Annual monitoring is recommended for early identification and management of thyroid dysfunction in this population.
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