Juvenile Hypothyroidism: A Clinical Perspective from Eastern India.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Thyroid Disorders
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Juvenile hypothyroidism (JH) can negatively impact child development.
• Data on acquired JH in India is limited.
• This study aimed to characterize JH in a referral clinic in eastern India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the clinical, biochemical, and ultrasonographic profile of juvenile hypothyroidism.
• To differentiate between overt (OH) and subclinical (SCH) juvenile hypothyroidism.
• To identify common presentations and associated conditions in JH.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective evaluation of 100 pediatric patients (<18 years) with acquired JH.
• Data collected included patient history, clinical examination, biochemical tests, and thyroid ultrasonography.
• Patients were categorized into overt (OH) and subclinical (SCH) hypothyroidism groups.

Main Results:

• 74% had overt hypothyroidism (OH), 26% subclinical (SCH); 66% were female.
• Goiter was the most common presentation (58%). Short stature (<3rd percentile) was significantly higher in OH (28%) vs SCH (4%).
• Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) positivity was higher in OH (64%) vs SCH (15%). Associated conditions included T1DM (5%) and Down syndrome (7%).

Conclusions:

• JH exhibits female preponderance and higher TPOAb positivity in OH.
• Goiter is the most frequent sign, with short stature more common in overt cases.
• Screening for JH is recommended in patients with T1DM or Down syndrome, and vice versa.