Thyroid gland is an endocrine gland situated at the front of the neck. It has a tremendous value at all ages. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the gland is working less than requires while hyperthyroidism refers to a hyperactive thyroid gland. There are many thyroid disorders that can present in children.

Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) present with swelling in the front of the neck which may be hyperfunctioning or hypofunctioning.

Congenital hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid hormone is deficient since birth as the thyroid gland is ill formed, absent or not functioning. It is diagnosed during the newborn period or early infancy. Thyroid hormone is essential for normal development of the brain, and hence untreated or inadequately treated babies suffer from some form of mental/neuro-cognitive disorders. The most important aspect is that such babies appear normal during birth and the signs of hypothyroidism develop late, by the time the brain development is already affected. Hence, every baby that is born should be screened for congenital hypothyroidism by doing a TSH test.

Juvenile hypothyroidism is a condition of reduced functioning of the thyroid gland occurring due to its autoimmune destruction. It usually presents in childhood or later with either growth failure or excessive weight gain.

Hyperthyroidism refers to a condition where the thyroid gland is secreting excessive thyroid hormone. This can lead to palpitation, weight loss, tremors and goiter. With specific treatment this condition can be controlled/cured medically.