[Subclinical hypothyroidism in infancy (author's transl)].

Clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism (constipation, macroglossia, umbilical hernia, typical face hyperbilirubinaemia) were found in a 4 months old infant. Body height and activity were normal and the skin did not show the typical dryness. Total-thyroxin (T4) level was normal as well as basal thyrotropin (TSH), only after stimulation with thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) an exaggerated response was observed. These hormonal findings are typical for subclinical hypothyroidism, a well known disturbance in adults. The clinical as well as therapeutic considerations are discussed in this patient.