TRANSIENT HYPOTHYROXINEMIA IN PREMATURE INFANTS

Abstract

Hypothyroxinemia of premature newborns is one of the most common transient thyroid disorders in preterm newborns. In this review article, we reviewed the available literature and clinical studies over the past 10 years on the development of transient hypothyroxinemia of prematurity (THoP). The etiology of primary and delayed increases in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in preterm infants has not been fully elucidated. There is some controversy regarding the timing and indications for screening for thyroid dysfunction in preterm infants. So, as THoP usually resolves spontaneously within 3-6 weeks of the postnatal period of adaptation of preterm infants. THoP is considered by the authors as a feature of the formation of the thyroid function of very preterm infants, other authors suggest that THoP is associated with non-thyroidal conditions that develop in preterm infants due to the severity of the somatic condition.The factors influencing the formation of the function of the thyroid system in newborns are analyzed. According to the literature, it was revealed that thyroid hormone replacement therapy did not lead to an improvement in the short-term and long-term outcomes of the development of the nervous system in this group of children. Questions about the indications, terms of treatment of THoP replacement therapy remain open. Further multicenter clinical trials are needed for more comprehensive conclusions.