Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) or
cretinism is a condition of
thyroid hormone deficiency present at birth. Approximately 1 in 4000 newborn infants has a severe deficiency of thyroid function, while even more have mild or partial degrees. If untreated for several months after birth, severe congenital
hypothyroidism can lead to
growth failure and permanent
intellectual disability. Treatment consists of a daily dose of thyroid hormone (
thyroxine) by mouth. Because the treatment is simple, effective, and inexpensive, nearly all of the developed world practices
newborn screening to detect and treat congenital hypothyroidism in the first weeks of life.