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Thyroid Cancer, Nodules & Hyperthyroidism (Expert Forum)
Born without a thyroid
Answered by
Mark Lupo, M.D. - Thyroid Nodules, Thyroid Cancer, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Thyroid Ultrasound
Thyroid & Endocrine Center of Florida
Sarasota - FL
Questions in the Thyroid forum are answered by Mark Lupo, MD. Topics covered include Goiter, Graves Disease, Hyperthyroid, Parathyroid/Calcium Problems, Thyroid Cancer, Thyroid Nodules/Cysts, Thyroiditis, Thyroid & Pregnancy, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Thyroid Tests, and Thyroid Surgery.
Born without a thyroid
by tiredpoet, Jun 26, 2009 12:24PM
A family member was born without a thyroid and so has suffered from what I assume is severe hypothyroidism all her life. I don't know if all of these are caused by the lack of thyroid, but she has learning disabilities and is developmental disabilities, is overweight, has very coarse, dry hair, very sparse eyebrows, acne, dry skin, ocassional bouts of depression, etc. She tires easily and so she has trouble with exercise, and she is now in her late 20s and still has no libido.
She's been on Synthroid all her life, and I really feel like she's not on the right dose or maybe even the right medication. Her doctor never changes her dosage and acts like the weight issues, dry hair, lack of eyebrows, etc are just things she must live with.
I know there are others born without a thyroid and it's rare, but isn't it possible to adjust her medication or try a different type so that she can live a better quality of life? Could the right dosage of the right medication help with even a little with weight, dry hair, etc?
She's been on Synthroid all her life, and I really feel like she's not on the right dose or maybe even the right medication. Her doctor never changes her dosage and acts like the weight issues, dry hair, lack of eyebrows, etc are just things she must live with.
I know there are others born without a thyroid and it's rare, but isn't it possible to adjust her medication or try a different type so that she can live a better quality of life? Could the right dosage of the right medication help with even a little with weight, dry hair, etc?
Doctor's Answer
by Mark Lupo, M.D., Jun 27, 2009 07:44AM
, Jun 27, 2009 07:44AM
It is unusual to be born without a thyroid however thyroid hormone replacement should adequately make up for the lack of thyroid. Blood tests can confirm if the dose is correct. If in doubt, would recommend an endocrinology consult.
