What are the symptoms of cretinism in a 30-day-old infant?
May 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Infants with cretinism may exhibit growth parameters such as weight, length, and head circumference significantly below the average of healthy infants of the same age by 30 days after birth. Motor development is typically delayed, and they may fail to achieve expected motor milestones. Nutritional problems may arise due to inadequate food intake, absorption issues, or metabolic abnormalities, further contributing to delays in weight gain and overall growth.
Congenital hypothyroidism (cretinism) may present symptoms by 30 days after birth, primarily including growth retardation, delayed motor development, and nutritional deficiencies. The details are as follows:
1. Growth Retardation
Within 30 days after birth, an infant's growth parameters—such as weight, length, and head circumference—may be significantly below the average levels of healthy infants of the same age. This may manifest as failure to gain weight or abnormally slow growth velocity.
2. Delayed Motor Development
Infants with congenital hypothyroidism often experience delays in motor development. They may fail to achieve expected motor milestones, and their muscle control and coordination may be impaired, possibly presenting with muscle hypotonia or abnormal muscle tone.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Due to inadequate food intake, absorption problems, or metabolic abnormalities, affected infants may develop nutritional deficiencies, further exacerbating delays in weight gain and overall growth.
In addition, other signs may include facial dysmorphism, pale skin, and thick lips. It is important to promptly consult a pediatrician for evaluation and undergo further diagnostic tests to confirm congenital hypothyroidism and determine its underlying cause.
