Pediatric & Young Adult Endocrinology
Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid results are often the reason a family comes in. What the number means depends on the child, the symptoms and the rest of the picture.
When families notice
- An abnormal TSH or thyroid result on a routine test
- Fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation or slowed growth
- Weight change, tremor, fast heartbeat or difficulty sleeping
- A swelling in the neck, or a nodule found on examination or imaging
- A family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions
What it usually means
Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis and thyroid nodules are managed differently, and some borderline results are best repeated before anything is decided.
In children, thyroid function also touches growth and puberty, so the evaluation usually looks beyond the single result that brought you here.
What I look at
- Whether the result was a one-time finding or a trend
- Symptoms, and how long they have been present
- Growth and pubertal stage
- Thyroid antibodies and, when appropriate, ultrasound
- Medications, supplements and recent illness, which can change results
How I approach it
I read the result in the context of the child rather than in isolation, and I explain what the numbers describe in plain language.
When treatment is needed, we start with a clear plan for follow-up, because thyroid management is adjusted over time rather than set once.
When to see me
If a thyroid result raised questions, if symptoms are present, or if a nodule was found, an evaluation can tell you what is worth following and what is not.
At a glance
- Birth through 22
- In person in New York City
- Telehealth
- English & Español
- No referral needed
Dr. Luisa F. González Ballesteros, MD
Conditions families ask about next
Still not sure this is the right question
If the explanation you were given does not fit what you are seeing, a consultation can help you understand the pattern.