Hypothyroidism in children with the Down syndrome: report of three cases

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Genetics
• Immunology

Background:

• Down syndrome is a genetic disorder associated with various health complications.
• Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder.
• Autoimmune thyroid diseases are a significant cause of hypothyroidism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report cases of concurrent Down syndrome and hypothyroidism.
• To investigate the potential association between Down syndrome and autoimmune thyroid disease.
• To review existing literature on autoimmune thyroid antibodies in families of individuals with Down syndrome.

Main Methods:

• Case report of three patients with Down syndrome and hypothyroidism.
• Literature review of 12 similar cases.
• Review of studies on autoimmune thyroid antibodies in families of patients with Down syndrome.

Main Results:

• The study suggests a possible association between Down syndrome and autoimmune thyroid disease.
• Evidence from case reports and literature review supports this association.
• Studies on familial autoimmune thyroid antibodies in Down syndrome families are also considered.

Conclusions:

• There appears to be an association between Down syndrome and autoimmune thyroid disease.
• Further research is required to elucidate the exact relationship and underlying mechanisms.
• Unanswered questions remain regarding the connection between these conditions.