Appendix 20 - Thyroid guidance (updated 2020)
Thyroid function
Venepuncture at age 6months, 1 year and annually thereafter throughout life - To check T4, TSH and thyroid antibodies. (Guidance changed in Winter 2019 to annual testing and starting at 6 months).
Where the T4 is normal and the child is asymptomatic but there is a mildly raised TSH (less than or equal to 10mu/l) or thyroid antibodies are present re-check after 6 months. A specialist opinion may be warranted.
Have a low threshold for testing thyroid function at other times if clinically indicated eg lethargy and/or changes in affect, cognition, growth, or weight. Testing should be continued throughout life.
If a child is already under the endocrinology team on Thyroxine supplements, please leave monitoring of TFT’s with the endocrine team.
Thyroid Disorder – a guide for parents
Thyroid disorder infomation for parents on the Downs Syndrome Association website
Thyroid disorder – guides for professionals
Annual check information for GPs on the Downs Syndrome Association website
Guidance for Essential Medical Surveillance on the Downs Syndrome Medical Interest Group website
