“Cretinism is defined as congenital hypothyroidism or underactivity of the thyroid glands that manifests itself during early childhood and results in stunted growth and mental retardation.” It is believed that the term “cretin” came from the French word chrétien, which literally translates as “Christian” or “Christ-like” because the ill were mentally handicapped and unable to commit sins. It is an iodine deficiency condition associated with insufficient thyroid hormone activity that manifests itself during the prenatal, infant, or childhood stages of development.
Causes
It can be caused by extreme iodine deficiency, which is known as endemic cretinism, or it can be caused by a decrease in the production of thyroid hormones, which is known as sporadic cretinism. Even though it is most commonly diagnosed during infancy or childhood, screening newborns is the most effective preventive technique available. It is critical to diagnose and treat cretinism as soon as possible; otherwise, permanent harm may result. The hormone will be replaced immediately, and the effect will be immediate.
Thyroid Gland and Thyroid Hormone are two important components of the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland, which is located in the neck region of our body, is one of the most essential endocrine glands in our body. It is responsible for the production and secretion of thyroid hormones such as triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4). These hormones are produced within the follicular cells of the gland by iodinating tyrosine residues at various places in a glycoprotein known as thyroglobulin, which is found in the cell membrane.
As a result, iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones in the body.
Thyroid hormone, in general, is critical in the maintenance of baseline metabolic rate, the oxidation of nutrients, and the promotion of growth and development during the early stages of life. Thyroid hormone synthesis is a complex process.
Thyroid Hormone Synthesis and Secretion
A Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Thyroglobulin is synthesised in follicular cells and released into the follicular lumen of the follicle.
Step 2: Iodide (in anionic form) is transported into the follicular cell by active transport and then diffuses into the follicular lumen through facilitated diffusion. This is referred to as the Iodide trapping process.
Step 3: The oxidation of iodide into iodine occurs near the border of follicular cells, which is the final step.
Step 4: MIT and DIT are formed as a result of the attachment of iodine to tyrosine, which is catalysed by the enzyme peroxidase, which is also known as the MIT and DIT reaction.
Step 5: Endocytosis of the thyroglobulin colloid.
Step 6: Lysosomal enzymes are responsible for the release of T4 and T3 from thyroglobulin, which is then transported to and stored in the bloodstream.
Conclusion
Therefore it can be concluded, Cretinism Is Caused By because of the elevated TBG, it is possible that total T4 and T3 levels are normal (Thyroxine binding globulin). It is possible that the high level of TBG is linked to maternal hyperestrogenism. TSH levels will be high as a result of a lack of feedback mechanisms in the body. Neonatal cretinism may also be caused by hypothyroidism in the mother during pregnancy. Hypothyroidism can occur as a result of the use of antithyroid medications or radioactive iodine in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.