Cretinism

 

Cretinism 

Definition:

It is a condition characterised by hypofunction of the thyroid gland in a child.

 

Aetiology

1.Intrauterine exposure to radioiodine.

2.Intrauterine exposure to anti thyroid drugs.

3.Atrophy of the thyroid gland.

4.Low levels of TSH coming from the pituitary gland.

5.Deficiency of iodine.

6.Congenital absence of the thyroid gland.

 

Clinical features

1.The child is normal at the time of birth. However the clinical feature of hypothyroidism develop by the age of 6 months.

2.There is cessation of physical and mental growth.

3.If not  diagnosed and treated in time, the child becomes a dwarf and mentally retarded.

4.The nose is flat and depressed.

5.The skin has sparse hair.

6.The hands are broad.

7.The tongue is broad and cracked.

8.There is a pot belly. There may be an umbilical hernia.

9.Constipation is present.

 

Treatment

See under ‘myxoedema’ For the treatment of hypothyroidism.