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
Flaring of the nares is a sign of increased respiratory effort, which is a manifestation of acute respiratory distress. This finding occurs when the child is attempting to draw in more air to meet the increased demand for oxygen.
Bilateral bronchial breath sounds can indicate consolidation or a bronchial obstruction, but they are not specific to acute respiratory distress.
Diaphragmatic respirations are a normal finding and may occur in response to respiratory distress, but they do not necessarily indicate acute respiratory distress.
A resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/min is within the normal range for a 1-year-old child and does not necessarily indicate acute respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Albuterol is a beta-adrenergic agonist agent that is used to open the airways in people with bronchial asthma. The mother's use of this medication to open her son's airway when he is having trouble breathing is appropriate. Overuse of the drug may cause side effects, but it does not cause chronic bronchitis (A)
Albuterol helps to relax the muscles in the airways, but it does not reduce airway inflammation (C)There is no indication that the child needs immediate evaluation (D)
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