[Neonatal hypothyroidism secondary to the use of povidone-iodine].

The skin absorption of iodine products in neonates with inhibition of thyroid function has been documented in the past. The use of Povidone-Iodine is the most frequent cause of this type of intoxication. Three neonates in which Povidone-Iodine was used during and after surgery had hypothyroidism secondary to glandular inhibition. They were discovered during the routine Programme for Neonatal Metabolic Diseases and were treated as deficits persists on retesting at 14 days of age. Treatment was maintained during one year, and the follow up controls of TSH-T4 were normal. During the neonatal period the use of Iodine containing antiseptics should be avoided because the potential risk of intoxication and glandular inhibition.