Neonatal Transient Hypothyroidism in Two Whippet Puppies

Abstract

The work describes a case of neonatal transient hypothyroidism in two whippet puppies aged 10 weeks. The condition was caused by iodine deficiency either in the diet solely or in combination with a partial peroxidase defect. Goitre developed in the puppies, fed giblets and poultry meat. Laboratory examinations in both puppies showed symptoms of hypothyroidism: non-regenerative anaemia, hypercholesterolaemia, significant decrease in the concentration of total thyroxine and increased concentration of thyrotropin. Ultrasonographic examination demonstrated enlarged thyroid glands. Cytological examination confirmed hyperplastic epithelial cells of the thyroid gland. The clinical condition improved within two months after the diet was changed to commercial dog food and after oral iodine supplementation was started. The iodine substitution was gradually discontinued. Four years later, the clinical and laboratory examinations were carried out in one of the presented patients under completely different circumstances (examination after a car accident). Haematological, biochemical and hormonal examinations were entirely within the reference range.