Cretinism natural history, complications and prognosis

If left untreated, patients with cretinism may progress to develop mental retardation and neurological manifestations. Common complications of cretinism include growth retardation and cardiovascular problems. Prognosis is usually good after treatment with levothyroxine.

• The symptoms of cretinism usually develop in the first months after birth and start with symptoms such as jaundice, large fontanelles, and umbilical hernia.
• If left untreated, patients with cretinism may progress to develop mental retardation and neurological manifestations like ataxia and poor motor coordination.^[1]

• Common complications of cretinism include:^[2]
  • Mental retardation
  • Growth retardation
  • Cardiovascular problems

• Prognosis is generally good after appropriate treatment with levothyroxine.^[3]

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