Neonatal thyroid screening in a mild iodine deficiency endemic area in Iran.

BACKGROUND

Evaluated serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), as an early index for diagnosis of neonatal hypothyroidism, indicates insufficient supply of thyroid hormones.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to estimate the incidence of neonatal hypothyroidism and assessment of iodine deficiency in the eastern part of Iran.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a pilot screening.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The measurement of blood TSH spotted on filter paper was performed by ELISA method in 59,436 neonates. TSH value equal to 5 mU/L was considered cut off point. The diagnosis of hypothyroidism in neonates with the blood TSH higher than the cut off point was based on clinical examinations and laboratory tests (serum TSH and T4).

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The groups were compared using chi-square and ANOVA tests.

RESULTS

In our study, the recall rate and incidence of hypothyroidism were 3.6% and 2 per 1000 neonates respectively. Based on the proposal made by WHO/UNICEF/ICCIDD, the results of our study showed a mild iodine deficiency in the area.

CONCLUSIONS

A comprehensive policy should be developed for control of iodine deficiency and treatment of hypothyroidism in the studied population and neighboring countries.