Abstract
A simultaneous determination of T4 and TSH has been done on 53.000 new borns since January 1st of 1977 in the Midi-Pyrénées district. 18 cases of hypothyroïdism have been detected, an incidence of 1/2950 new borns. TSH values always were above 80 μU/ml ; T4 values are under m -2 σ in 14 cases, normal in 2 cases (8,8 and 9 μg/dl) and between -1 and -2 σ in 2 cases. A thyroid scanning with 123 iodine or 99 Tech. has shown the absence of thyroid in 8 cases, an ectopic gland in 8 cases and a thyroid in a normal position in one case. A treatment has been possible before the first month of life in each case. The average D.Q. for the seven oldest new borns (m = 11 months) is 96.
The simultaneous determination of T4 and TSH is a sensitive and specific screening method for hypothyroidism. False-negative are avoided and the number of false-positive results is reduced. All cases of hypothyroidism can be detected (primary hypothyroïdism, hypothalamo-hypopituitary hypothyroïdism, TBG deficiency, etc. . .). Then, an early and certain diagnosis is made possible (T4 low and TSH increased).
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Rochiccioli, P., Dutau, G., Augier, D. et al. Neonatal screening for hypothyroïdism by simultaneous determination of T4 and TSH on filter paper. Pediatr Res 13, 1189 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197910000-00056
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197910000-00056