Thyroid disorders in childhood and adolescence.

ABSTRACT

Thyroid disorders are common endocrine problem encountered in the paediatric and adolescent age group. Amongst the functional thyroid disorders hypothyroidism is far more common than hyperthyroidism. Though simple goitre is common in this age group, nodular goitre and in particular solitary thyroid nodule are uncommon. Appropriate use of thyroid function test can delineate practically all thyroid disorders. Functional thyroid disorders lend themselves to effective treatment and monitoring strategies. The basic management principles remain similar to adults with thyroid dysfunction; experience in management of paediatric and adolescent thyroid disorders is particularly necessary to safeguard against long term detrimental effects of under-or overtreatment as it can have repercussion on the growth of the child. Prognosis in majority of the children tends to be good provided that timely and appropriate management is undertaken.