Aspects of congenital hypothyroidism

This article describes aspects of congenital hypothyroidism, outlining retrospective studies and indicating the effects on development in childhood of the deficiency of thyroid hormone in early life. The intellectual problems persist into adult life and are associated with motor and behavioural abnormalities, causing social difficulties to many of the patients. Prospective screening and early treatment have resolved many of these difficulties but treatment must be given appropriately to ensure adequate progress.