Postpartum Thyroiditis in Palestinian Women

2187's picture
Type: 
Thesis
Year: 
2002
Students: 
Talal Fayiz Frihat
AttachmentSize
postpartum_thyroiditis_in_palestinian_women.pdf1.51 MB
Abstract: 
To the best of my knowledge there is no screening for postpartum thyroiditis (PPT) in Palestine up to date .The aim of this study was to establish a base line data regarding PPT incidence , and to determine possible risk factors. This study shows that the screening program system faced many problems regarding sampling as well as handling of specimens, and also in follow up and communication with people. From May 2000 to May 2001, there was 101 pregnant women screened for PPT by measuring the TSH hormone by immuno-radiometric assay (IRMA) method. Four cases were diagnosed as suspected PPT as TSH concentration was undetectable, incidence about 4%. This incidence is in the same range of reported incidence in most countries. About 17.8% of screened cases were classified in the range less than 0.5 mIu/m1 for TSH level in postpartum period. Although our screening program for PPT has benefited pregnant women to some extent, it seems that this subject need more wide screening with more cases, tests, and budgets. To achieve this goal, cooperation between all primary health care providers, to pregnant women in prenatal and PP period, is definitely needed.