Thyroid disorders in pregnancy.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Recognition and management of thyroid disease during pregnancy is challenging with conflicting recommendations from various professional organizations.

RECENT FINDINGS: We review the literature related to the diagnosis and management of gestational hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. We also discuss postpartum thyroiditis, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer. The evidence clearly demonstrates that both overt hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism should be treated, but controversy exists regarding the treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism and thyroid antibody positive euthyroidism, and whether pregnant women should be screened for thyroid disease.

SUMMARY: Appropriate management of thyroid disease during pregnancy is important for maternal and fetal health, particularly the recognition and management of hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis.