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UCSF Health

Congenital Hypothyroidism Screening

Step 1: First Screen

Send the newborn screen (NBS) at 12–24 hours of life.

If the first-screen result is abnormal: Obtain a Pediatric Endocrinology consult.

If the first-screen result is not abnormal: Proceed to the second screen.

Step 2: Second Screen

Obtain serum TSH and free T4 at 28–35 days of life.

If the second-screen result is abnormal: Obtain a Pediatric Endocrinology consult.

Screen Reader Summary

  • First screen: NBS at 12–24 hours of life.
  • An abnormal first-screen result leads to Pediatric Endocrinology consultation.
  • Second screen: serum TSH and free T4 at 28–35 days of life.
  • An abnormal second-screen result leads to Pediatric Endocrinology consultation.