Congenital hypothyroidism
The UK NSC policy on Congenital hypothyroidism screening in newborns
More Information
Underactivity of the thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) can arise for a number of reasons. Hypothyroidism can occur in newborn infants (Congenital Hypothyroidism, CHT) as well as later on in childhood (acquired Hypothyroidism, AHT). Affected newborns look, and usually act, normal for the first few days and the national screening programme for CHT, by blood spot collection, ensures that affected infants are identified and treated as early as possible. The commonest cause of CHT is a poorly developed or absent thyroid gland; the underlying basis to this abnormality is only clear in a small proportion of cases. CHT can also occur if there is a defect in thyroxine production within the gland. These defects may be permanent or transient. Although every child with CHT should be started on thyroxine promptly, they should be evaluated at some time later to exclude a transient problem. Children with CHT do very well as adults in the long-term, as long as they receive adequate thyroxine replacement.
» Read more about congenital hypothyroidism on the Contact a Family website
Policy Position
Screening for congenital hypothyroidism is part of the programme for all newborn babies.
This policy was reviewed in May 2005 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2011/12, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Screening in the UK
Compare how screening is offered across the UK.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
Health Technology Assessment 1997 Vol 1 No.11. Neonatal screening for inborn errors of metabolism: a systematic review (Seymour et al)
Health Technology Assessment 1997 Vol 1 No. 7. Neonatal screening for inborn errors of metabolism: cost, yield and outcome (Pollitt et al)
Stakeholders
British Thyroid Association
Institute of Child Health
Royal College of General Practitioners
Royal College of Midwives
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
