Thyroid Disease in Children
Thyroid disease in children is uncommon but important, because thyroid hormone is essential for growth and brain development. Problems may be present from birth or develop later in childhood or adolescence.
Early recognition and treatment support normal growth, learning and development.
Last medically reviewed: 15 November 2025
Key points
- Congenital hypothyroidism is detected by newborn screening and treated early.
- Acquired thyroid disease can affect growth, puberty and school performance.
- Children can also develop thyroid nodules and, rarely, thyroid cancer.
- Treatment is monitored closely as the child grows.
Conditions seen in children
Congenital hypothyroidism is the most important preventable cause of intellectual disability and is detected on newborn screening. Acquired hypothyroidism, often autoimmune, can appear later in childhood.
Graves’ disease can occur in children and adolescents, and thyroid nodules or cancer, though rare, do occur.
Signs and symptoms
In infants, signs may include poor feeding, prolonged jaundice, constipation, lethargy and a hoarse cry. In older children, hypothyroidism can cause slowed growth, weight gain, fatigue, constipation and poor school performance.
Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss, tremor, anxiety, a fast heart rate and difficulty concentrating.
Assessment
Assessment includes a detailed history, examination, growth charting and thyroid blood tests. Imaging may be used to assess the gland or nodules.
Results are interpreted against age-specific reference ranges, which differ from adult values.
Treatment and monitoring
Treatment depends on the condition. Congenital and acquired hypothyroidism are treated with levothyroxine, with doses adjusted as the child grows. Hyperthyroidism may be treated with medication, radioactive iodine or surgery, depending on age and circumstances.
Regular monitoring supports growth, development and school performance, with transition planning to adult care.
When to seek urgent medical help
- A newborn with poor feeding, lethargy, prolonged jaundice or constipation.
- A child with slowing growth or delayed puberty.
- A rapidly enlarging neck lump or new voice change.
This guidance does not replace emergency services. If you are seriously unwell, seek urgent medical care immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Can children have thyroid problems?
Yes — congenital and acquired thyroid conditions occur in children, though they are uncommon. They need specialist assessment.
Are thyroid tests different for children?
The tests are similar, but results are interpreted against age-specific reference ranges.
Does treatment affect growth?
Correctly treated thyroid disease supports normal growth and development. Monitoring ensures the dose stays right as the child grows.
Is thyroid cancer common in children?
It is rare, but it does occur. A thyroid lump in a child should be assessed by a specialist.
References & further reading
This page is based on established medical knowledge and guidelines from authoritative sources. Always consult a qualified clinician for personal medical advice.
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