Page 122 - Clinical Biochemistry

• Also known as congenital iodine deficiency syndrome, is a condition of severely under-
developed physical and mental growth owing to untreated congenital deficiency of thyroid
hormone, (congenital hypothyroidism) usually owing to maternal hypothyroidism.
• Can be corrected by giving thyroxine if started early enough.

Figure 72: Cretinism

Myxedema
• Hypothyroidism in adults leads to lowered metabolic rate.
• Myxedema refers to a severe form of hypothyroidism than can occur when the condition is
left untreated or is not treated sufficiently.
• The term also applies to the effects that hypothyroidism can have on the skin, making it
appear swollen and puffy.
• Can be corrected by giving thyroxine.

Figure 73; Myxedema

Goiter
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland.
• Can be caused by:
1- Inadequate iodine in the diet with resulting low levels of T4 and T3.