Prevalence of Transient Congenital Hypothyroidism as Seen at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: This study determined the prevalence of transient congenital hypothyroidism at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. (UPTH) Congenital hypothyroidism is one of the commonest causes of preventable mental retardation. About 85% of cases of congenital hypothyroidism are sporadic. Most of the affected neonates show no clinical features at birth. Screening programs have been established in many developed countries but data in Nigeria is sparse. Study Design: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted on 436 neonates between January and December, 2014. Place and Duration of the Study: This took place between January and December, 2014 in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Methods: Serum from cord blood samples was assayed for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and those with increased levels had follow up assay for free thyroxine (free T4). Results: A total of 436 neonates were screened. Twenty-seven of them had increased TSH levels and six of those with increased TSH levels had low free T4 concentrations. The risk factors identified by history taking did not show a statistically significant association. Conclusion: The prevalence of transient primary congenital hypothyroidism was 1.4%. This is higher than that found in most parts of the world and similar to studies done previously in Nigeria.