Step 1: Blood Tests

These are the core tests:

1. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

2. Free T4 (Thyroxine)

A high TSH combined with a low Free T4 confirms primary hypothyroidism.

3. Thyroid antibodies

Positive antibodies suggest Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the most common cause in children.

Step 2: Clinical Examination

I usually check:

Step 3: Growth Chart Review

A child's growth chart is often the most telling clue.

Typical pattern in hypothyroidism:

I've diagnosed more thyroid disorders from blood tests and growth chart changes than from symptoms.

This is exactly why digital tools like MapMyKidz — which alert parents to subtle deviations — are becoming essential.

Step 4: Thyroid Ultrasound (sometimes)

Not always necessary, but useful when:

The ultrasound in Hashimoto's usually shows a patchy or irregular gland.

The Importance of Early Detection

Hypothyroidism caught early is easy to treat and prevents long-term issues.

Untreated, it may cause:

With timely treatment, children return to normal growth and normal life.