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What is Neonatal Hypothyroidism?
Neonatal hypothyroidism (also known as congenital hypothyroidism) is a condition that occurs when a baby is born with an underactive or absent thyroid gland, resulting in their bodies being unable to produce normal amounts of thyroid hormone. Neonatal hypothyroidism is usually a permanent condition, and treatment for it generally lasts a lifetime. This condition occurs in about 1 out of every 3,000 to 4,000 children.
Thyroid hormone is essential for a baby’s healthy brain development, as well as their growth and development. Left untreated, neonatal hypothyroidism can cause intellectual disabilities.
Symptoms of Neonatal Hypothyroidism
Signs of congenital hypothyroidism can be seen as early as the first week of life, though they are generally less obvious. Symptoms include:
- Poor feeding
- Excessive sleeping
- Weak cry
- Constipation
- Prolonged jaundice (yellow skin)
In babies that exhibit these symptoms, doctors may also find that they have poor muscle strength, a puffy face, a large tongue, a distended abdomen, and/or large fontanelles (soft spots) on the head.
Diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism can be difficult in newborns, because these symptoms are not always immediately obvious. Since early diagnosis is essential, all hospitals in the United States screen for neonatal hypothyroidism in newborns by collecting blood for a newborn screening.
Causes of Neonatal Hypothyroidism
Common causes of congenital hypothyroidism include an underdeveloped thyroid gland; a thyroid gland located in an abnormal location; or a thyroid gland that is missing altogether.
Less common causes of congenital hypothyroidism include a “thyroid blocking antibody” being passed from mother to baby, though in this case, the condition may last for just a few weeks. Neonatal hypothyroidism can also be caused by a failing brain signal that doesn’t successfully tell the thyroid to function.
In some cases, neonatal hypothyroidism can be caused by a mother ingesting a medication that acts as an anti-thyroid drug. Fortunately, there is treatment available that helps babies with congenital hypothyroidism develop normally and lead a normal life.
Congenital Hypothyroidism Treatment
Treatment for neonatal hypothyroidism is simple: a thyroid hormone medication called levothyroxine, which is taken in pill form. For many children, this treatment is needed for life. The dose of levothyroxine may vary based on the child’s needs as they grow, so your doctor will do periodic tests to see if adjustments need to be made.
Have Any Lawsuits Been Filed?
Congenital hypothyroidism has been linked with the arrhythmia medication amiodarone. If your baby was born with neonatal hypothyroidism after exposure to amiodarone, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation.
Of course, filing a lawsuit cannot reverse the effects of this lifelong condition, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Filing a lawsuit can be daunting, so Top Class Actions has laid the groundwork by connecting you with an experienced attorney. Consulting an attorney can help you determine if you have a claim, navigate the complexities of litigation, and maximize your potential compensation.
