Thyroid disease in children: part 1: State-of-the-art imaging in pediatric hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism, defined as inadequate production of thyroid hormone, can be secondary to various underlying abnormalities in the pediatric population. Most frequently, hypothyroidism is related to structural abnormalities of the gland (dysgenesis), particularly in the neonatal population. However, other etiologies including intrinsic biochemical (dyshormonogenesis) and autoimmune abnormalities, as well as other rare causes, must be considered. Imaging is required to differentiate among the various etiologies of hypothyroidism and can be helpful in guiding therapy. This review aims to present an organized approach to hypothyroidism in the pediatric population, and assist the imager in guiding patient care.