A breastfeeding infant, screened for congenital hypothyroidism, is found to have low levels of thyroxine (T4) and high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Which is the best explanation for this finding?
The TSH is high because of the low production of T4 by the thyroid.
The thyroxine level is low because the TSH level is high.
The thyroid gland does not produce normal levels of thyroxine for several weeks after birth.
High thyroxine levels normally occur in breastfeeding infants.
The Correct Answer is A
In a normal infant, T4 levels increase after birth due to stimulation by TSH from the pituitary gland. In this case, the T4 level is low and the TSH level is high, indicating that the thyroid gland is not producing enough T4 in response to TSH stimulation. This suggests that the infant may have congenital hypothyroidism, which requires prompt treatment to prevent developmental delays and other complications.
The low T4 level is not a direct cause of the high TSH level; rather, the high TSH level is a compensatory mechanism to increase T4 production. It is not normal for a breastfeeding infant to have high thyroxine levels. While the thyroid gland may take a few weeks to reach normal function after birth, the persistent low T4 and high TSH levels in this infant suggest a more serious issue.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
To prevent recurrence of otitis media in their infant. Exposure to secondhand smoke has been identified as a risk factor for recurrent otitis media.
B. While it is important to monitor the infant's ears for signs of infection, daily inspection alone is not sufficient to prevent recurrence of otitis media.
C. The prone position after feeding is not recommended for infants due to the risk of choking and aspiration, and it is not a preventive measure for otitis media.
D. While breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of otitis media, frequent breastfeeding alone is not sufficient to prevent recurrence of the condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that the first dose of MMR vaccine be given at 12-15 months of age.
A. 6 months is too early for the MMR vaccine.
D. 2 months is also too early for the MMR vaccine.
C. 24 months is slightly beyond the recommended range for the first dose of MMR vaccine, which is given between 12-15 months of age.
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