title: Clinical study of endemic cretinism in south Sikkim.
abstract: One hundred individuals suffering from Endemic Cretinism were studied. There were 55 males and 45 females. 62% of the cretins had visible goitre. Thirty nine (62.9%) goitrous cretins had grade II goitre. Neurological cretinism was the predominant type encountered (99%) and Myxoedematous cretinism was seen in only one patient. The most salient neurological feature was deaf-mutism seen in 74%. Findings in the motor system were, apart from deaf-mutism, the most characteristic feature of the condition on clinical examination. 58% had exaggerated deep tendon reflexes and 31% had extensor plantar response. Squint was noticed in 29%. Familial aggregation was noticed and was striking. Endemic cretinism is a distinctive and easily identifiable clinical entity and is an important indicator of the severity of iodine deficiency in a community.
authors.affiliation: RIA laboratory, Govt. Gen. Hospital Namchi, S. Sikkim.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Sankar
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Pulger
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Rai
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Sankar
authors.forename: T R
authors.initials: TR
authors.lastname: Gyatso
authors.forename: B M
authors.initials: BM
authors.lastname: Rai
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D003409:Congenital Hypothyroidism / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D006043:Goiter, Endemic / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007194:India / Q000453:epidemiology; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007455:Iodine / Q000172:deficiency*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D011247:Pregnancy
chemical_list: D007455:Iodine