[Hypothyroidism and simple goiter in pregnancy]

The incidence of hypothyroidism during pregnancy is 2.5%. Failure to diagnose the problem causes serious complications both to the mater and to the fetus. This pathological condition is verified on the basis of clinical analysis and above all in the laboratory. Autoimmunity is frequently the cause of hypothyroidism whereas this condition is rarely provoked as a result of surgery and therapy with I131. Pregnancy causes a definite deterioration of a pre-existing euthyroid goiter, so as it requires a careful monitoring of woman at risk. If the goiter is found to be neoplastic, its histotype and size must be studied carefully in order to provide for surgery. Therapy with L-thyroxine is essential to avoid damage to both mater and fetus and to monitor the glandular growth in the euthyroid goiter.