Hormone Abnormalities in Children: Possible Causes

Dear Ask The Doctor: My 8 year old niece is always thirsty, urinates frequently, has very healthy appetite but is very thin. She weighs only 22.2 kg. We took her for some tests and here are the results : TSH (ECLIA) 8.160 (Normal range : 0.27-4.20); FT3, 4.39 (N: 2.30-4.20); FT4, 1.14 (N: 0.89-1.76); Glycohemoglobin, 5.1 % (N:4.27-6.07%); C Peptide, 1.06 (N: 0.9-7.1) What is the significance of these values? Thank you.

Your niece may have a hormonal problem. It is alarming that she is always thirsty (polydipsia), urinates frequently (polyuria), and increased appetite (polyphagia). These symptoms are not normal. The TSH is also high, 2x that of the upper normal value and it is alarming that her weight is only 22.2kg despite a very good appetite; her weight is that of a normal 5-6 year, ergo, she is somewhat malnourished. There are numerous causes for these signs and symptoms and I think it is best for her to be checked by a pediatrician promptly. It is possible she may have a tumor that caused the TSH to increase. Nonetheless, a complete physical evaluation and urine tests, further blood tests and procedures may be needed to diagnose her condition. Bottomline is this should not be taken lightly because hormonal problems also have life-threatening consequences. I do hope this helps. Take care always.