title: Subclinical hypothyroidism in childhood.
abstract: Subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) is defined as an elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in association with a normal total or free thyroxine (T4) or triiodothyronine (T3). It is frequently encountered in both neonatology and general paediatric practice; however, its clinical significance is widely debated. Currently there is no broad consensus on the investigation and treatment of these patients; specifically who to treat and what cut-off level of TSH should be used. This paper reviews the available evidence regarding investigation, treatments and outcomes reported for childhood SH.
authors.affiliation: Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Our Ladys Childrens Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: O'Grady
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Cody
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004314:Down Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D020249:Hormone Replacement Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D013972:Thyrotropin / Q000097:blood; D013974:Thyroxine / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D013972:Thyrotropin; D013974:Thyroxine