What is the Difference Between Cretinism and Myxedema?

Cretinism and myxedema are both conditions related to thyroid hormone deficiency, but they differ in their manifestations and severity. Here are the main differences between the two:

• Age: Cretinism is more common in young children, while myxedema is most commonly found in adults.
• Symptoms: Cretinism is characterized by short stature, mental and sexual retardation, depression, dry skin, lethargy, and increased weight. Myxedema, on the other hand, is associated with weakness, confusion, swelling of the body, delay in bone maturation, protruding stomach, and hair loss.
• Severity: Myxedema is a more severe form of hypothyroidism, leading to decreased mental status, hypothermia, and decreased function in multiple organs. Cretinism, although also a severe thyroid hormone deficiency, does not typically cause these severe symptoms.
• Causes: Both conditions are caused by an absence or deficiency of thyroid hormone, but they may have different underlying causes. For example, cretinism can be caused by a lack of iodine in the body, while myxedema may result from an underactive thyroid gland.

In summary, cretinism and myxedema are both thyroid hormone deficiency conditions, but they differ in their age of onset, symptoms, severity, and underlying causes.

Comparative Table: Cretinism vs Myxedema

Cretinism and Myxedema are both conditions related to hypothyroidism, which is a deficiency in thyroid hormone production. They share some similarities but also have distinct differences. Here is a table comparing the two conditions:

Both Cretinism and Myxedema are characterized by defects in thyroid function and can lead to morphological defects in humans. They can also produce life-threatening complications if not treated properly. However, Cretinism is congenital hypothyroidism leading to stunted growth and mental retardation, while Myxedema is severe hypothyroidism leading to decreased mental status, hypothermia, and decreased function in multiple organs.