Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 76%
Simulated
A breastfeeding infant, screened for congenital hypothyroidism, is found to have low levels of thyroxine (T4) and high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Which is the best explanation for this finding?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
High TSH levels are a compensatory response to low T4 production, indicating congenital hypothyroidism, which requires prompt treatment to prevent developmental delays.