Pediatria pre prax 3/2023

Thyroid dysfunction children with congenital heart disease

Children with congenital heart disease have higher prevalence of thyroid dysfunction due to genetic factors, and mostly, due to the need of multiple diagnostic evaluations using iodine contrast agents, need for catheterization and surgical interventions, pharmacological treatment and intensive care. Low triiodothyronine syndrome represents several days lasting thyroid hormone abnormalities seen in patients with acute disease. The sickest patients with complicated clinical courses show more profound and longer time lasting changes. Diagnosis of hypothyroidism may be delayed as signs of the disease are difficult to recognize particularly in infants and critically ill patients. Hypothyroidism may delay the recovery from the critical illness and also, can contribute to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with congenital heart disease.

Keywords: congenital heart disease, extracorporeal circulation, iodine contrast agent, thyroid hormones, hypothyroidism, low triiodothyronine syndrome