[Transitory hypothyroidism of the newborn infant following amniofetography with an iodine-containing contrast medium].

In the foetus and neonate the thyroid follicular cells are immature and hence incapable of protecting the organism against an iodide-induced inhibition of hormone synthesis (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). Thus, an iodide excess during pregnancy can lead to transient hypothyroidism in the foetus and neonate. Transient hypothyroidism due to iodide toxicity following amniofoetography in the newborn period is described.