Audit of initial management of congenital hypothyroidism in the United Kingdom--comparison of UK practice with European and UK guidelines.

BACKGROUND: Prompt and adequate management of newly diagnosed congenital hypothyroidism (CH) has been shown to optimise intellectual outcome.

METHODS: A questionnaire survey of the British Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (BSPED) membership was undertaken, examining current clinical practice in neonatal CH. Results were compared with published management guidelines from Europe and the UK.

RESULTS: The response rate was 86%. The majority were largely compliant with both guidelines. 43% review newly referred infants on the day of notification. However, 26% treat severe CH with < 10 microg/kg/day thyroxine and nearly 20% do not follow up until at least 14 days after initiating treatment, in contrast to both guidelines. Despite a new liquid T4 preparation being licensed, respondents preferred tablet T4.

CONCLUSION: Rapidity of assessment and adequate follow up of suspected CH is critical to outcome. Existing European and UK guidelines should be reviewed and expanded to incorporate new evidence, together with increased advice on preparation and administration of T4.