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Published on: October 6, 2023
[Resistance to thyroid hormone syndrome with developmental disorders in two children]
Lin-Ying Liao1, Xing-Fang Li1, Xing-Xing Zhang1
1Department of Pediatrics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China.
Insights
Early THRB gene testing is crucial for diagnosing resistance to thyroid hormone syndrome (RTH) in children with unexplained thyroid dysfunction and developmental delays. Identifying THRB mutations aids precise diagnosis and guides effective treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Resistance to thyroid hormone syndrome (RTH) presents with significant clinical heterogeneity.
- RTH can be challenging to diagnose, leading to potential misdiagnosis or delayed identification.
- Thyroid dysfunction in children often requires thorough genetic investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of THRB gene mutations in pediatric cases of resistance to thyroid hormone syndrome.
- To highlight the importance of early genetic testing for THRB mutations in children with unexplained thyroid dysfunction and developmental disorders.
- To illustrate how genetic findings guide diagnosis and treatment in RTH.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of two pediatric patients with clinical suspicion of RTH.
- Genetic testing to identify mutations in the THRB gene.
- Clinical evaluation including thyroid hormone levels (FT3, FT4, TSH) and developmental assessment.
Main Results:
- Patient 1: diagnosed with RTH due to a de novo THRB mutation (c.1373T>C, p.Val458Ala), presenting with delayed language development.
- Patient 2: diagnosed with pituitary-type RTH due to a de novo THRB mutation (c.959G>A, p.Arg320His), exhibiting growth delay and tachycardia.
- Both cases demonstrate the link between THRB gene mutations and RTH phenotypes.
Conclusions:
- Early THRB gene testing is essential for accurate diagnosis of RTH in pediatric patients.
- Identifying specific THRB mutations facilitates tailored treatment and management strategies.
- Prompt genetic diagnosis of RTH can prevent diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Patient 1, a 4-year-old boy, presented with delayed language development. Persistently elevated free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) were found, with normal or elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). A de novo heterozygous mutation in the THRB gene (c.1373T>C, p.Val458Ala) was identified, and resistance to thyroid hormone syndrome (RTH) was diagnosed. No specific medication was administered, and regular follow-up was arranged. Patient 2, a 2-year-old boy, had elevated TSH detected on neonatal screening. Thyroid dysfunction persisted for 1 year and 10 months and was accompanied by growth delay and tachycardia. Genetic testing revealed a de novo heterozygous mutation in the THRB gene (c.959G>A, p.Arg320His), and pituitary-type RTH was diagnosed. Propranolol was administered for heart rate control. RTH shows marked clinical heterogeneity and is prone to misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis. For children with unexplained thyroid dysfunction and developmental disorders, early THRB gene testing helps achieve precise diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
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