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Thyroid gland disorders in African children.
Journal of the National Medical Association
|February 1, 1979
Summary
Thyroid disorders are common in Nigerian children, accounting for 37% of endocrine conditions. Many congenital thyroid cases present late with severe developmental issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- African Health Studies
Background:
- Endocrine disorders are infrequent in Black African children.
- Thyroid gland disorders represent a significant portion of pediatric endocrine cases in Nigeria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalence and presentation of thyroid disorders in children at University College Hospital, Ibadan.
- To highlight diagnostic challenges and late presentation of congenital thyroid disorders.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 27 endocrine disorder cases in children aged 4 months to 14 years over five years.
- Diagnoses based on clinical evaluation and basic laboratory tests.
Main Results:
- Thyroid disorders constituted 37% of all endocrine disorders studied.
- Patients, including those with congenital conditions, often presented late with advanced physical and mental developmental disturbances.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid disorders are a notable concern in pediatric endocrine care in this Nigerian population.
- Late diagnosis and presentation, particularly for congenital thyroid disorders, lead to significant developmental impairments.