The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the risk-benefit profile of long-term treatment of two different initials treatment schemes with L-T4 on the neurodevelopmental and auxological outcomes in children with congenital hypothyroidism, diagnosed by neonatal screening in order to find the best dose of initial thyroid hormone replacement to assure the best long-term developmental outcome without any adverse effects on auxological, cardiovascular and skeletal outcomes. The secondary objective of the study is to evaluate the role of other factors that, in addition to the initial L-T4 therapy,can influence long-term neurodevelopmental and auxological outcomes as well as the cardiovascular system and bone metabolism outcomes.
Seventy-two neonates detected by the neonatal screening program for congenital hypothyroidism were randomly assigned to receive one of the two initial L-T4 replacement dose: Group A received an initial replacement dose of 10-12.5 mcg/kg/die and Group B received an initial replacement dose of 12.6-15 mcg/kg/die. The adequacy of treatment were monitored closely by clinical evaluation and regular measurement of FT4 and TSH. Cognitive development were evaluated through the Griffiths Mental Development Scales at the the age of 2 yeas. Cognitive and behavioural assessment at the age of 4 years were performed using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary scale of Intelligence. Growth were evaluate at the enrolment and at each visit. Skeletal maturation were evaluated at diagnosis and at the age of 1 and 4 years. At the age of 4 years a quantitative ultrasound measurements and cardiovascular evaluation were performed.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
72
Congenital hypothyroidism children received two different doses of levothyroxin within the recommended range to evaluate any differences in long-term outcomes.
Neurodevelopmental outcomes
Cognitive and behavioral assessment was performed using Wechsler Preschool and Primary scale of Intelligence (WIPPSI-III). The WIPPSI-III evaluates the intelligence of children between 2.6 and 7.3 years and provides a Total Intelligence Quotient, a Verbal Intelligence Quotient, a Performance Intelligence Quotient and a Processing Speed Quotient. Quotients \> 85 are considered normal.
Time frame: At four years of age
Linear Growth
Linear growth was evaluated periodically during the study through the measurement of length up to 3 years and height subsequently. Length and height were measured in centimeters and are expressed as standard deviation score.
Time frame: 7-10 days after the start of treatment and at 1.5, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 and 48 months of life.
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