To study the correlation between maternal subclinical hypothyroidism and neonatal outcome

Abstract

ABSTRACT newlineTitle: newlineTo Study the Correlation Between Maternal Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Neonatal Outcomes. newlineBackground: newlineSubclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in pregnancy, characterized by elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels with normal free thyroxine (T4) levels, is a common but often underdiagnosed condition. Maternal thyroid function is crucial for fetal growth and neurodevelopment, especially during the first trimester, when the fetus depends entirely on maternal thyroid hormones. SCH, even in its mild form, has been linked to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm delivery, and increased neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions. Additionally, maternal autoimmune factors like anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies can further compromise neonatal thyroid function and overall health. Despite its significant impact, SCH often remains undetected due to the lack of routine screening in pregnancy. Addressing this gap is essential to reduce neonatal complications and improve maternal and fetal outcomes. newlineAim: newlineTo investigate the correlation between maternal subclinical hypothyroidism and its impact on neonatal outcomes. newlineObjectives: newline1. To determine the concordance for hypothyroidism in neonates born to mothers with subclinical hypothyroidism. newline2. To assess the relationship between maternal thyroid hormone levels and neonatal thyroid function. newlineMethodology: newlineThis cross-sectional analytical study included women diagnosed with SCH and their neonates. Maternal thyroid function was assessed using TSH, free T4, and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO). Neonatal outcomes were analyzed, including birth weight, Apgar newlinescores, and NICU admissions. Statistical tools were employed to identify significant correlations. newlineResults: newlineThe study observed a 90.4% concordance rate between maternal subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and neonatal thyroid dysfunction. Among 93 neonates born to mothers with SCH, 67 (72%) exhibited thyroid dysfunction, while 26 (28%) were unaffected. Neonates from SCH mothers