title: [Screening for congenital hypothyroidism].
abstract: In the Netherlands nation-wide screening for CH began in January 1981. The aim of the combined T4-TSH screening method is to detect all forms of CH, primary as well as secondary and tertiary. More than 99% of the newborns are screened. The rate of false-positives in premature infants was reduced in June 1982 by a change of the indications for follow-up. Further study is performed on T4 values of premature infants. The information, given to the parents in case of recall, is not optimal yet. Although there is still delay in screening and follow-up, the initiation of treatment is considerably advanced. The effect of earlier treatment on development will be assessed by Prof. Dr. A. F. Kalverboer. Very likely, the early treatment will lead to a considerable reduction of damage to the central nervous system.
mesh_terms: D002657:Child Development; D003409:Congenital Hypothyroidism; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000097:blood / Q000523:psychology; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007235:Infant, Premature, Diseases / Q000097:blood*; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education; D013974:Thyroxine / Q000097:blood*
chemical_list: D013974:Thyroxine
vernacular_title: Screening op congenitale hypothyreoïdie.