Iodine Deficiency: Causes, Clinical Features, Diagnosis, and Management

Introduction

Iodine is a crucial micronutrient necessary for thyroid hormone synthesis. Deficiency can lead to various health complications, including goiter and cognitive impairment.

Causes of Iodine Deficiency

• Insufficient dietary intake
• Geographical factors (iodine-deficient soils)
• Pregnancy and lactation increasing iodine requirements
• Consumption of goitrogens interfering with iodine uptake

Clinical Features

Iodine deficiency manifests through a range of symptoms:

• Goiter (thyroid gland enlargement)
• Hypothyroidism symptoms (fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance)
• Neurological impairment in infants and children
• Decreased fertility and developmental abnormalities

Diagnostic Approaches and Biomarkers

Accurate assessment of iodine deficiency is vital for appropriate intervention:

• Urinary iodine concentration measurement
• Serum thyroglobulin as a biomarker
• Thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4 levels)

Management Strategies

Effective management includes dietary supplementation and public health measures:

• Iodized salt consumption
• Iodine supplementation in high-risk populations
• Monitoring and public health initiatives