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Neonatal screening for congenital hypothyroidism using the filter paper thyroxine technique
M P Desai1, P Upadhye, M P Colaco
1Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, Bombay.
The Indian Journal of Medical Research
|July 1, 1994
Summary
This study screened 25,244 newborns for congenital hypothyroidism using filter paper thyroxine (FP-T4). The screening identified 9 cases, suggesting an incidence of 1:2804, highlighting the importance of early detection.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal screening
- Endocrinology
- Pediatric diagnostics
Background:
- Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a treatable condition requiring early diagnosis.
- Newborn screening programs are crucial for identifying CH shortly after birth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a filter paper thyroxine (FP-T4) screening protocol for congenital hypothyroidism.
- To determine the incidence of CH in a large cohort of newborns.
Main Methods:
- Screened 25,244 newborns using filter paper thyroxine (FP-T4) at 24-96 hours of birth.
- Recalled neonates with FP-T4 values between 51-80 ng/ml (borderline) and <50 ng/ml (high risk).
- Confirmed diagnosis with repeat FP-T4, serum T4, and TSH levels, supplemented by thyroid scans.
Main Results:
- Confirmed congenital hypothyroidism in 6 newborns via primary screening (incidence 1:4207).
- Identified 3 additional cases missed by primary screening, increasing the probable incidence to 1:2804.
- Follow-up confirmed CH in all 9 infants, with subnormal T4 and elevated TSH levels.
Conclusions:
- The FP-T4 screening protocol is effective in detecting congenital hypothyroidism.
- Early detection and treatment of CH are vital for preventing developmental impairments.
- Refined screening protocols may reduce missed cases and improve diagnostic accuracy.