Goitre and hypothyroidism in the newborn after cutaneous absorption of iodine.

Iodine goitre and hypothyroidism in 5 newborn infants in an intensive care unit were induced by cutaneous absorption of iodine, after numerous skin applications of iodine alcohol. The infant's skin permeability allows severe iodine overloading of the thyroid, resulting in goitre and hypothyroidism. Ioduria should always be sought in a newborn infant showing hypothyroidism. Iodine should not be used as a skin disinfectant in young infants.