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Hypothyroidism

Definition(s)

The clinical syndrome that results from decreased secretion of thyroid hormone from the thyroid gland. It leads to a slowing of metabolic processes and in its most severe form to the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the skin, causing a nonpitting edema termed myxedema. Cretinism is the congenital form leading to abnormalities of intellectual and physical development. (Bennett, et al., Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 20th ed)

Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

Too little thyroid hormone. Symptoms include weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and sensitivity to the cold. Also called underactive thyroid.

Definition from:  National Cancer Institute dictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference.

Related discussion in the Handbook

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: February 25, 2013