Once cretinism is detected during infancy,the child is treated to prevent a severe intellectual disability by
A) being placed on a special diet that restricts phenylalinine as early as possible.
B) surgical implantation of a tube to drain fluid from the brain into the abdomen to minimize brain damage.
C) being placed on thyroid hormone replacement.
D) being given large doses of vitamin A and B-12.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cretinism is caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormones, so the most effective treatment is to replace those hormones through thyroid hormone replacement therapy. A special diet restricted in phenylalanine is used to treat another condition called phenylketonuria, and surgical implantation of a tube to drain fluid from the brain into the abdomen is used to treat hydrocephalus, a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain. Large doses of vitamin A and B-12 are not indicated for the treatment of cretinism.

Once Cretinism Is Detected During Infancy,the Child Is Treated to Prevent