Neonatal Endocrinologic Problems in Collodion Babies

Abstract

Objectives

To identify endocrinologic problems, particularly those concerning growth, in collodion babies (CBs).

Methods

Clinically identified newborn CBs were included in the study group (group 1). Because CBs are generally born premature, small for gestational age (SGA), or both, a control group matched to the study group in terms of gestational age and birthweight (group 2) was also established. Blood specimens were collected from both groups for thyroid function tests and to measure serum growth hormone (GH), insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels.

Results

Group 1 consisted of 42 CBs (25 male, 17 female) with gestational ages of 32 to 42 weeks and birthweights of 1,400 to 4,000 g. Twelve were assessed as premature and 17 as SGA. Serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were lower and serum GH levels higher than in controls. Primary hypothyroidism was diagnosed in 10 patients in the study group, subclinical hypothyroidism in 2, and central hypothyroidism in 1. A statistically significant difference was determined between the groups in terms of primary hypothyroidism (p = 0.01). Serum GH levels were weakly negatively correlated with birthweight (correlation coefficient [r] = −0.32, p = 0.04) and serum IGF-1 (r = −0.38, p = 0.001) and IGFBP-3 (r = −0.36, p = 0.002) levels.

Conclusion

Premature birth and SGA are common in CBs. GH levels are high and IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels low at birth as a sign of GH resistance in these patients. The greater prevalence of hypothyroidism in these children is also significant.

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