What are the Symptoms of Cretinism?
October 3, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Cretinism, also known as congenital hypothyroidism, is a condition that occurs due to a deficiency of thyroid hormones from birth. It is often the result of inadequate thyroid gland function or improper development of the thyroid gland. The symptoms of cretinism can vary in severity and may include:
- Delayed Growth and Development:
- Short stature and delayed physical growth.
- Delayed milestones in infancy and childhood, such as sitting up, walking, and talking.
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities:
- Intellectual impairment, ranging from mild to severe.
- Poor memory, learning difficulties, and decreased cognitive function.
- Facial and Skeletal Abnormalities:
- Coarse facial features, including a broad nose, thick lips, and enlarged tongue (macroglossia).
- Broad hands and feet, with short fingers and toes.
- Hearing Loss:
- Sensorineural hearing loss or hearing impairment.
- Delayed Dental Development:
- Delayed eruption of teeth and dental abnormalities.
- Swollen Neck or Goiter:
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck (goiter).
- Constipation:
- Difficulty passing stools and infrequent bowel movements.
- Low Muscle Tone (Hypotonia):
- Weak muscle tone, leading to floppy movements and difficulty with motor skills.
- Fatigue and Lethargy:
- Constant tiredness and lack of energy.
- Cold Intolerance:
- Difficulty tolerating cold temperatures.
- Dry Skin and Hair:
- Dry, coarse skin and brittle hair.
- Jaundice:
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) in some cases.
Early detection and treatment of cretinism, usually through thyroid hormone replacement therapy, are crucial to prevent or minimize the impact of these symptoms on a child’s growth, development, and overall well-being. Regular monitoring and appropriate management by healthcare professionals are essential to optimize the child’s development and quality of life.