Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy and Neuropsychological Development in Children
Status: Not yet recruiting

Thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism and thyroid autoimmunity, impacts a significant proportion of pregnant women, affecting 3% and 17% respectively. The management of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels is crucial, with subclinical hypothyroidism often defined by a TSH upper reference limit of 4 mU/L, and overt hypothyroidism by TSH levels above 10 mU/L and potentially low free thyroxine (FT4) levels. Levothyroxine (LT4) treatment is strongly advised for TSH levels above 10 mU/L, with the timing of intervention being critical during the first trimester for optimal fetal brain development.

Research shows that untreated maternal hypothyroidism can significantly impact the neuropsychological development of the child, affecting cognitive, verbal, and motor skills. Even subclinical maternal hypothyroidism has been associated with lower IQ and motor scores in children. Early pregnancy intervention is key, as treatment after the first trimester may not improve children's neurocognitive outcomes.

Regarding sensory and linguistic development, evidence is mixed, but recent studies suggest that maternal hypothyroidism can lead to expressive language delays. The Development Quotient (DQ) is used to assess cognitive and motor development in children, with the Griffiths Mental Development Scales II being a common tool.

This study aims to explore the effects of treated maternal hypothyroidism during pregnancy on children's neurodevelopment, focusing on learning and language. It includes 31 women diagnosed with hypothyroidism and a control group of 21 euthyroid women, along with their children. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of maternal hypothyroidism for preventing adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring. Statistical analysis will be conducted using SPSS, with a focus on maternal-fetal outcomes and cognitive-neuropsychological outcomes, highlighting the significance of early intervention.

Eligibility:
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria Group 1:  Women aged above 18 and not beyond 50; Diagnosed with hypothyroidism during pregnancy; TSH values equal to or greater than 10 mU/L during pregnancy; Children aged between 2 and 6 years born to mothers with overt hypothyroidism during pregnancy; Signature of consent.  Exclusion Criteria Group 1:  Presence of uncontrolled liver, kidney, diabetic, neurological, and psychiatric comorbidities prior to conception; Twin pregnancies; History of alcohol or smoking during pregnancy; History of infertility or assisted conception.  Inclusion Criteria Group 2:  Women aged above 18 and not beyond 50; Absence of hypothyroidism during pregnancy; Children aged between 2 and 6 years born to mothers without overt hypothyroidism during pregnancy; Signature of consent.  Exclusion Criteria Group 2:  Presence of uncontrolled liver, kidney, diabetic, neurological, and psychiatric comorbidities prior to conception; Twin pregnancies; History of alcohol or smoking during pregnancy; History of infertility or assisted conception. - HealthyVolunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers - Gender: All - MinimumAge: 2 Years - MaximumAge: 50 Years - StdAgeList: Child, Adult