Abstract:

Maternal hyperthyroidism has an important influence on fetal development and effects on physical changes in children after birth. Overproduction of thyroid hormones by the mother and transplacental passage of stimulating antibodies from congenital acquired hypothyroidism affecting neonatal thyroid function, growth, and mental development should be considered. There is evidence that children of hyperthyroid mothers are at risk for transient or permanent thyrotoxicosis, growth restriction cardiac mutations and metabolic perturbations. This review summarises the current knowledge on postnatal development in infants of mothers affected with hyperthyroidism taking into account not only the endocrine aspects but also those related to the development of other organ systems, including cardiovascular and brain development. The discussion includes maternal–fetal hormone transfer mechanisms, neonatal thyroid regulation, and clinical approaches of monitoring and managing these potential complications, emphasizing the role of early recognition for long-term outcome optimization. The hyperthyroid mother׳s child has to adapt, both physiologically and developmentally, to the consequences of her in utero exposure to excess thyroid hormones and maternal thyroid-grave disease stimulating antibodies. These exposures also impact on neonatal thyroid function, cardiovascular homoeostasis, metabolic control and growth and neurocognitive development. It is now established that severity of maternal disease, circulatory antibodies, and time and effectiveness of maternal therapy are the major constraints for postnatal emission. An early diagnosis and close follow-up of the affected neonates could lead to timely intervention, prevent complications and ensure a favorable outcome. This review summarizes the current understanding of postnatal changes in hyperthyroid offspring and their clinical implications, whereas also exploring interventions to improve long-term health.