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Yilmaz A, Ozer Y, Kaya N, Cakir AD, Culpan HC, Perk Y, Vural M, Evliyaoglu O. Clinical indicators that influence a clinician's decision to start L-thyroxine treatment in prematurity with transient hypothyroxinemia. Ital J Pediatr 2023; 49:105. [PMID: 37644575 PMCID: PMC10466863 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-023-01516-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity (THOP) is defined as a low level of circulating thyroxine (T4), despite low or normal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. AIMS We aimed to evaluate the incidence of THOP, the clinical and laboratory findings of preterm infants with this condition and the levothyroxine (L-T4) treatment. METHODS Preterm infants (n = 181) delivered at 24-34 weeks of gestation were evaluated by their thyroid function tests that were performed between the 10th and 20th days of postnatal life and interpreted according to the gestational age (GA) references. Clinical and laboratory characteristics of the patients with THOP and normal thyroid function tests were compared. Patients with THOP and treated with L-T4 were compared with the ones who were not regarding laboratory, and clinical characteristics. RESULTS Incidence of hypothyroxinemia of prematurity was 45.8% (n = 83). Euthyroidism, primary hypothyroidism, and subclinical hypothyroidism were diagnosed in 47.5% (n = 86), 5% (n = 9) and 1.7% (n = 3) of the patients, respectively. Mean birth weight (BW) and GA were significantly lower in the hypothyroxinemia group than in the euthyroid group (p < 0.001). L-T4 was started in 43% (n = 36) of the patients with THOP. Treatment initiation rate was 44.4% (n = 16) in 24-27 wk, 41.6% (n = 15) in 28-30 wk, and 13.8% (n = 5) in 31-34 wk. As the GA increased, the incidence of THOP and the rate of treatment initiation decreased (p < 0.001). The lowest free thyroxine (FT4) cut-off value was 0.72 ng/dl in the treated group. In addition, incidences of vancomycin + amikacin, caffeine, dopamine treatments, RDS, IVH, BPD, central catheter, FFP transfusion, and ventilator support were higher in the treated group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study revealed that prevalence of THOP increased as the GA and BW decreased. As the GA decreased, THOP patients requiring L-T4 treatment increased. Additionally, association with comorbid diseases increased the requirement of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslan Yilmaz
- Department of Neonatology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey.
| | - Yavuz Ozer
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
| | - Nesrin Kaya
- Department of Neonatology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
| | - Aydilek Dagdeviren Cakir
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
| | - Hazal Cansu Culpan
- Department of Public Health, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
| | - Yildiz Perk
- Department of Neonatology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Vural
- Department of Neonatology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
| | - Olcay Evliyaoglu
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Kocamustafapasa, Fatih, Istanbul, 34098, Turkey
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O'Connor KM, Ashoori M, Dias ML, Dempsey EM, O'Halloran KD, McDonald FB. Influence of innate immune activation on endocrine and metabolic pathways in infancy. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2021; 321:E24-E46. [PMID: 33900849 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00542.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Prematurity is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Premature infants often require extended hospital stays, with increased risk of developing infection compared with term infants. A picture is emerging of wide-ranging deleterious consequences resulting from innate immune system activation in the newborn infant. Those who survive infection have been exposed to a stimulus that can impose long-lasting alterations into later life. In this review, we discuss sepsis-driven alterations in integrated neuroendocrine and metabolic pathways and highlight current knowledge gaps in respect of neonatal sepsis. We review established biomarkers for sepsis and extend the discussion to examine emerging findings from human and animal models of neonatal sepsis that propose novel biomarkers for early identification of sepsis. Future research in this area is required to establish a greater understanding of the distinct neonatal signature of early and late-stage infection, to improve diagnosis, curtail inappropriate antibiotic use, and promote precision medicine through a biomarker-guided empirical and adjunctive treatment approach for neonatal sepsis. There is an unmet clinical need to decrease sepsis-induced morbidity in neonates, to limit and prevent adverse consequences in later life and decrease mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M O'Connor
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - M Ashoori
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - M L Dias
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - E M Dempsey
- Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland
| | - K D O'Halloran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - F B McDonald
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Pradhan B, Panda SK, Pradhan DD, Nayak MK, Rath S, Sahoo S. Serial Thyroid Function Test in Very Low Birth Weight Neonates. JOURNAL OF CHILD SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1731337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThyroid dysfunction is more common in preterm and low birth weight infants, and may be missed if thyroid function test (TFT) is not repeated. Thus, we attempted to study the pattern of thyroid function among very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with birth weight less than 1,500 g by serial TFTs. Serum free thyroxine (FT4) and thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH]) levels of VLBW infants were tested on fifth to seventh days of life and repeated after 4 weeks of age. Based on serial FT4 and TSH results, abnormal TFT was classified into four groups—transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity (THOP), transient hyperthyrotropinemia (THT), delayed TSH rise, and overt congenital hypothyroidism (CH). Stata 15.1 (Stata Corp, Texas, United States) was used for analysis. Ninety-six VLBW infants were enrolled with mean gestational age of 30.5 ± 2.7 weeks and median (interquartile range) birth weight of 1,200 (317) g. Out of 96 cases, 30 (31.2%) infants had abnormal TFT. Ten (10.4%) infants had THOP, 7 (7.3%) infants had THT, 11 (11.5%) infants had delayed TSH rise, and 2 (2.1%) infants had overt CH. There were no significant differences in demographic profile and clinical characteristics between neonates with normal and abnormal TFTs. Five infants required levothyroxine supplementation (two infants with overt CH and three infants with delayed TSH rise). VLBW neonates have higher incidence of CH and delayed rise of TSH in this study. In resource-limited settings, repeating TFTs at least once after 4 weeks of age may be suggested to identify delayed rise of TSH which may need intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birendra Pradhan
- Department of Pediatrics, Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Burla, Odisha, India
| | - Santosh Kumar Panda
- Department of Pediatrics, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | | | - Manas Kumar Nayak
- Department of Pediatrics, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Soumini Rath
- Department of Pediatrics, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sonali Sahoo
- Department of Physiology, Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Burla, Odisha, India
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Rai R, Singh DK, Bhakhri BK. Transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity and its risk factors in an extramural neonatal intensive care unit. ARCHIVES OF ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM 2021; 65:723-729. [PMID: 33909379 PMCID: PMC10065390 DOI: 10.20945/2359-3997000000360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective Thyroid functions in preterm newborns may be altered in the first week of life. Hypothyroxinemia has been commonly reported in these babies, which could be due to the immaturity of the hypothalamic pituitary thyroid axis or acute illness. It could have a long-term impact on the developing brain of these babies. We conducted this study to estimate the incidence of transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity (THOP) and to determine its risk factors. Methods We analyzed thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free T4 levels of 64 preterm neonates admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit. TSH and free T4 levels were measured in the first week and then at 14-21 days of life to estimate the incidence of THOP and determine its risk factors. We also estimated the incidence of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and delayed TSH elevation in CH. Risk analysis was conducted using simple and multiple logistic regression, and numerical data was compared using the Mann Whitney U test and t test. Results THOP was seen in 25% of the preterm babies. Caesarean delivery, presence of one or more morbidities, mechanical ventilation, birth weight ≥ 1,500 g, and gestational age ≥ 32 weeks were identified as risk factors for THOP based on simple logistic regression. In multiple regression, mechanical ventilation and gestational age ≥ 32 weeks were significantly associated with THOP. CH was seen in 2 (3.1%) babies, and 1 of these cases had delayed TSH elevation. Conclusion Thyroid abnormalities are common in preterm admitted neonates. Mechanical ventilation is an independent risk factor for development of THOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Rai
- Department of Neonatology (Maternal Reproductive Health), Super Speciality Pediatric Hospital and Postgraduate Teaching Institute, Noida, UP, India,
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, Super Speciality Pediatric Hospital and Postgraduate Teaching Institute, Noida, UP, India
| | - Bhanu Kiran Bhakhri
- Department of Pediatrics, Super Speciality Pediatric Hospital and Postgraduate Teaching Institute, Noida, UP, India
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Postnatal Serum Total Thyroxine of Very Preterm Infants and Long-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcome. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13041055. [PMID: 33805038 PMCID: PMC8064055 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary congenital hypothyroidism is a disease associated with low serum thyroxine and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. The processes of screening and treating congenital hypothyroidism, in order to prevent neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) in newborns, have been well investigated. Unlike term infants, very preterm infants (VPIs) may experience low thyroxine with normal TSH levels (<10.0 μIU/mL) during long-stay hospitalization. In the current literature, thyroxine treatment has been evaluated only for TSH-elevated VPIs. However, the long-term impact of low thyroxine levels in certain VPIs with normal TSH levels deserves more research. Since July 2007, VPIs of this study unit received screenings at 1 month postnatal age (PNA) for serum TSH levels and total thyroxine (TT4), in addition to two national TSH screenings scheduled at 3–5 days PNA and at term equivalent age. This study aimed to establish the correlation between postnatal 1-month-old TT4 concentration and long-term NDI at 24 months corrected age among VPIs with serial normal TSH levels. VPIs born in August 2007–July 2016 were enrolled. Perinatal demography, hospitalization morbidities, and thyroid function profiles were analyzed, and we excluded those with congenital anomalies, brain injuries, elevated TSH levels, or a history of thyroxine treatments. In total, 334 VPIs were analyzed and 302 (90.4%) VPIs were followed-up. The postnatal TT4 concentration was not associated with NDI after multivariate adjustment (odd ratios 1.131, 95% confidence interval 0.969–1.32). To attribute the NDI of TSH-normal VPIs to a single postnatal TT4 concentration measurement may require more research.
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Kim HR, Jung YH, Choi CW, Chung HR, Kang MJ, Kim BI. Thyroid dysfunction in preterm infants born before 32 gestational weeks. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:391. [PMID: 31664954 PMCID: PMC6819381 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1792-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Thyroid hormones are critical for growth and brain development during the newborn period and infancy. Because of delayed maturation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis in preterm infants, thyroid dysfunction is common, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) elevation is often delayed in preterm infants. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of thyroid dysfunction requiring levothyroxine treatment and to identify its risk factors in preterm infants. Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed on preterm infants who were born before 32 gestational weeks and admitted to a single tertiary academic center for more than 8 weeks between January 2008 and December 2014. In these infants, serial thyroid function tests (TFTs) measuring serum TSH and free thyroxine (fT4) were routinely performed at 1, 3, and 6 weeks of postnatal age. Results Of the 220 preterm infants enrolled, 180 infants underwent TFTs at 1, 3, and 6 weeks of postnatal age and were included in the study. Of the 180 infants, 35 infants (19.4%) were started on levothyroxine treatment based on the results of serial TFTs. Among the 35 infants who were treated with levothyroxine, 16 infants (45.7%) had normal results on the initial TFT. Three of these 16 infants continued to have normal results on the second TFT. Thyroid dysfunction requiring levothyroxine treatment was significantly associated with maternal pregnancy-induced hypertension (adjusted odds ratio 2.64, 95% confidence interval 1.02–6.81). Conclusions Thyroid dysfunction requiring levothyroxine treatment occurred in nearly one-fifth of preterm infants born before 32 gestational weeks. Nearly half of the preterm infants who were treated with levothyroxine had normal TSH and fT4 levels at 1 week of postnatal age. The findings of the present study suggest that serial TFTs is important to find preterm infants who require levothyroxine treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Rim Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Bundang CHA Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hwa Jung
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 82 Gumi-ro 173 Beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 13620, Republic of Korea.
| | - Chang Won Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 82 Gumi-ro 173 Beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Rim Chung
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 82 Gumi-ro 173 Beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jae Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Beyong Il Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 82 Gumi-ro 173 Beon-gil, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 13620, Republic of Korea
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Yoon SA, Chang YS, Ahn SY, In Sung S, Park WS. Initial and delayed thyroid-stimulating hormone elevation in extremely low-birth-weight infants. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:347. [PMID: 31604459 PMCID: PMC6788081 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1730-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine the incidence, etiology, and outcomes of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) elevation in extremely low-birth-weight infants (ELBWIs). METHODS Newborn thyroid screening data of 584 ELBWIs (birth weight, < 1000 g; gestational age, ≥ 23 weeks) were retrospectively analyzed to identify initial (≤ 2 postnatal weeks) and delayed (> 2 weeks) TSH elevations. Growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years' corrected age (CA) were assessed according to levothyroxine replacement. RESULTS Initial and delayed TSH elevations were detected at CAs of 27 and 30 weeks, respectively, with incidence rates of 0.9 and 7.2%, respectively. All infants with initial TSH elevations had perinatal asphyxia, and 95% of those with delayed TSH elevation were exposed to various stressors, including respiratory support, drugs, and surgery within 2 weeks before diagnosis of TSH elevation. Free thyroxine (T4) levels were simultaneously reduced in 80 and 57% of infants with initial and delayed TSH elevations, respectively. Both initial and delayed TSH elevations were transient, regardless of levothyroxine replacement. Infants receiving levothyroxine replacement therapy had significantly higher TSH elevations, significantly lower free T4 levels, and significantly reduced mortality, compared to untreated infants. However, levothyroxine replacement had no significant effect on long-term growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The timing of insult superimposition on hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis maturation is a major determinant of initial or delayed TSH elevation in ELBWIs. Levothyroxine replacement did not affect growth or neurodevelopmental outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Ae Yoon
- Department of Pediatrics, Chungbuk National University Hospital, 1 Sunhwan-ro 776, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644, South Korea
| | - Yun Sil Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea
| | - So Yoon Ahn
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea
| | - Se In Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea
| | - Won Soon Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea.
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Eerdekens A, Langouche L, Van den Berghe G, Verhaeghe J, Naulaers G, Vanhole C. Review shows that thyroid hormone substitution could benefit transient hypothyroxinaemia of prematurity but treatment strategies need to be clarified. Acta Paediatr 2019; 108:792-805. [PMID: 30537292 DOI: 10.1111/apa.14685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM Thyroid hormones are crucial for foetal and neonatal brain development. This paper provides an overview of the normal role of thyroid hormones in foetal brain development and the pathophysiology of transient hypothyroxinaemia of prematurity (THOP). It also discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic controversies around THOP and looks at directions for future research. METHODS We used the PubMed and Embase databases to identify papers published in English from 1969 to June 2018. This identified 20 papers about the impact of THOP on neurodevelopment and seven randomised controlled trials about therapeutic approaches from 1981-2016. RESULTS THOP has been researched for more than three decades. The impact of temporarily low thyroxine levels, without any increase in pituitary-secreted thyroid-stimulating hormone at a critical timeframe in an infant's brain development, is still debated. Heterogeneity in THOP definitions, difficulties with thyroid hormone assessment, identifying patients at risk and a clear lack of sufficiently powered studies add to the current controversy. There are indications that thyroid hormone substitution might be useful in extremely low gestational age neonates with THOP. CONCLUSION Some preterm infants could benefit from THOP treatment, but more studies are needed to clarify further treatment strategies, including the optimal timing of initiation and duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Eerdekens
- Department of Neonatology University Hospitals Leuven KU Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - Lies Langouche
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine Clinical Division and Laboratory of Intensive Care Medicine KU Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - Greet Van den Berghe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine Clinical Division and Laboratory of Intensive Care Medicine KU Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - Johan Verhaeghe
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology University Hospitals Leuven KU Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - Gunnar Naulaers
- Department of Neonatology University Hospitals Leuven KU Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - Christine Vanhole
- Department of Neonatology University Hospitals Leuven KU Leuven Leuven Belgium
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Iijima S. Current knowledge of transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity: to treat or not to treat? J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 32:2591-2597. [PMID: 29447027 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1441277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid hormones (THs) play a critical role in normal maturation of the developing brain in the fetus and infant. Continuing advances in neonatal medicine have contributed to an increased survival of extremely premature infants with neonatal morbidities. In these infants, thyroid system immaturities, as well as morbidity-related thyroid dysfunction, contribute to transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity (THOP), which is characterized by very low total and free thyroxine and normal or low thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. REVIEW Undoubtedly, low levels of THs with elevated TSH are associated with poor neurodevelopmental outcome. However, continuing debate exists regarding whether THOP is harmful to the developing brain. Moreover, no clear effects of TH treatment on neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants with THOP have been demonstrated. THs could have unpredictable effects if given unnecessarily. CONCLUSION The current recommendation is to treat THOP with TH only if THOP is accompanied with TSH elevation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Iijima
- a Department of Pediatrics , Hamamatsu University School of Medicine , Hamamatsu , Japan
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Uchiyama A, Kushima R, Watanabe T, Kusuda S. Effect of L-thyroxine supplementation on very low birth weight infants with transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity at 3 years of age. J Perinatol 2017; 37:602-605. [PMID: 28125093 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2016.266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of levothyroxine (L-T4) supplementation on growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3 years of age in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity (THOP). STUDY DESIGN VLBW infants with plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone concentrations <10 mIU l-1 and free thyroxine concentrations <0.8 ng dl-1 were defined as having THOP and randomly assigned to the Treated (20 infants) or Untreated (31 infants) group. The Treated group received L-T4 at a dose of 5 μg kg-1 day-1. Growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3 years of age were compared between the two groups. RESULTS There were no significant differences in body length, body weight or head circumference mean s.d. scores or in neurodevelopmental outcomes between the two groups. CONCLUSION L-T4 supplementation in VLBW infants with THOP demonstrated no beneficial effect at 3 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Uchiyama
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, Maternal and Perinatal Center, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.,Tokyo Metropolitan Neonatal Research Group, Tokyo, Japan
| | - R Kushima
- Tokyo Metropolitan Neonatal Research Group, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Neonatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Bokutoh Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - T Watanabe
- Tokyo Metropolitan Neonatal Research Group, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Neonatology, Tokyo Metropolitan Bokutoh Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - S Kusuda
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, Maternal and Perinatal Center, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan.,Tokyo Metropolitan Neonatal Research Group, Tokyo, Japan
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Lee JH, Kim SW, Jeon GW, Sin JB. Thyroid dysfunction in very low birth weight preterm infants. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2015. [PMID: 26213551 PMCID: PMC4510356 DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2015.58.6.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Thyroid dysfunction is common in preterm infants. Congenital hypothyroidism causes neurodevelopmental impairment, which is preventable if properly treated. This study was conducted to describe the characteristics of thyroid dysfunction in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs), evaluate risk factors of hypothyroidism, and suggest the reassessment of thyroid function with an initially normal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) as part of a newborn screening test. METHODS VLBWIs (January 2010 to December 2012) were divided into two groups according to dysfunction-specific thyroid hormone replacement therapy, and associated factors were evaluated. RESULTS Of VLBWIs, 246 survivors were enrolled. Only 12.2% (30/246) of enrolled subjects exhibited thyroid dysfunction requiring thyroid hormone replacement. Moreover, only one out of 30 subjects who required thyroid hormone treatment had abnormal thyroid function in the newborn screening test with measured TSH. Most of the subjects in the treatment group (22/30) exhibited delayed TSH elevation. Gestational age, Apgar score, antenatal steroids therapy, respiratory distress syndrome, patent ductus arteriosus, sepsis, intraventricular hemorrhage, postnatal steroids therapy, and duration of mechanical ventilation did not differ between the two groups. Birth weight was smaller and infants with small for gestational age were more frequent in the treatment group. CONCLUSION Physicians should not rule out suggested hypothyroidism, even when thyroid function of a newborn screening test is normal. We suggest retesting TSH and free thyroxine in high risk preterm infants with an initially normal TSH level using a newborn screening test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hoon Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Sung Woo Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Ga Won Jeon
- Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Jong Beom Sin
- Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
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Gladstone M, Oliver C, Van den Broek N. Survival, morbidity, growth and developmental delay for babies born preterm in low and middle income countries - a systematic review of outcomes measured. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120566. [PMID: 25793703 PMCID: PMC4368095 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature birth is the leading cause of neonatal death and second leading in children under 5. Information on outcomes of preterm babies surviving the early neonatal period is sparse although it is considered a major determinant of immediate and long-term morbidity. METHODS Systematic review of studies reporting outcomes for preterm babies in low and middle income settings was conducted using electronic databases, citation tracking, expert recommendations and "grey literature". Reviewers screened titles, abstracts and articles. Data was extracted using inclusion and exclusion criteria, study site and facilities, assessment methods and outcomes of mortality, morbidity, growth and development. The Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group criteria (CHERG) were used to assess quality. FINDINGS Of 197 eligible publications, few (10.7%) were high quality (CHERG). The majority (83.3%) report on the outcome of a sample of preterm babies at time of birth or admission. Only 16.0% studies report population-based data using standardised mortality definitions. In 50.5% of studies, gestational age assessment method was unclear. Only 15.8% followed-up infants for 2 years or more. Growth was reported using standardised definitions but recommended morbidity definitions were rarely used. The criteria for assessment of neurodevelopmental outcomes was variable with few standardised tools - Bayley II was used in approximately 33% of studies, few studies undertook sensory assessments. CONCLUSIONS To determine the relative contribution of preterm birth to the burden of disease in children and to inform the planning of healthcare interventions to address this burden, a renewed understanding of the assessment and documentation of outcomes for babies born preterm is needed. More studies assessing outcomes for preterm babies who survive the immediate newborn period are needed. More consistent use of data is vital with clear and aligned definitions of health outcomes in newborn (preterm or term) and intervention packages aimed to save lives and improve health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Gladstone
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Alder Hey NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Clare Oliver
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Alder Hey NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nynke Van den Broek
- Centre for Maternal and Newborn Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Korzeniewski SJ, Soto-Rivera CL, Fichorova RN, Allred E, Kuban KCK, O’Shea TM, Paneth N, Agus M, Dammann O, Leviton A. Are preterm newborns who have relative hyperthyrotropinemia at increased risk of brain damage? J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2014; 27:1077-88. [PMID: 24897395 PMCID: PMC4317282 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2014-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We sought to disentangle the contributions of hyperthyrotropinemia (an indicator of thyroid dysfunction) (HTT) and intermittent or sustained systemic inflammation (ISSI) to structural and functional indicators of brain damage. METHODS We measured the concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) on day 14 and of 25 inflammation-related proteins in blood collected during the first 2 postnatal weeks from 786 infants born before the 28th week of gestation who were not considered to have hypothyroidism. We defined hyperthyrotropinemia (HTT) as a TSH concentration in the highest quartile for gestational age on postnatal day 14 and ISSI was defined as a concentration in the top quartile for gestational age of a specific inflammation-related protein on 2 separate days a week apart during the first 2 postnatal weeks. We first assessed the risk of brain damage indicators by comparing 1) neonates who had HTT to those without (regardless of ISSI) and 2) neonates with HTT only, ISSI only, or HTT+ISSI to those who were exposed to neither HTT nor ISSI. RESULTS In univariable models that compared those with HTT to those without, HTT was not significantly associated with any indicator of brain damage. In models that compared HTT only, ISSI only, and HTT+ISSI to those with neither, children with ISSI only or with HTT+ISSI were at significantly higher risk of ventriculomegaly [odds ratios (ORs) 2-6], whereas those with HTT only were at significantly reduced risk of a hypoechoic lesion (ORs 0.2-0.4). Children with HTT only had a higher risk of quadriparesis and those with ISSI alone had a higher risk of hemiparesis (ORs 1.6-2.4). Elevated risk of a very low mental development score was associated with both ISSI only and HTT+ISSI, whereas a very low motor development score and microcephaly were associated with HTT+ISSI. CONCLUSIONS The association of HTT with increased or decreased risk of indicators of brain damage depends on the presence or absence of ISSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J. Korzeniewski
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Carmen L. Soto-Rivera
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Raina N. Fichorova
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School
| | - Elizabeth Allred
- Neurology Departments, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Karl C. K. Kuban
- Departments of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center and Boston University, Boston, MA
| | | | - Nigel Paneth
- Department of Epidemiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
| | - Michael Agus
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Olaf Dammann
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Hannover School of Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alan Leviton
- Neurology Departments, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Seth A. Transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity: Does it have clinical relevance? Indian Pediatr 2012; 49:703-4. [DOI: 10.1007/s13312-012-0148-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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