The infant of the mother with thyroid disease

The baby of a mother with thyroid disease may also be at risk of abnormal thyroid function. This may be temporary or permanent. Conditions that may affect the fetus and neonate include iodine deficiency, maternal hypo- or hyperthyroidism and medications. Maternal thyroid dysfunction is associated with an increased frequency of adverse outcomes in the offspring. This article will discuss the implications of maternal thyroid disease for the fetus and neonate, and make suggestions in terms of investigations and management.