Exploration of cut-off value of TSH during screening of congenital hypothyroidism in the newborns

Positive linear correlation was found between TSH level and detection rate of congenital hypothyroidism (CH). When measured with a cut-off point at 9, 10, 15 and 20 mU/L of TSH, the sensitivity of positive detection rate for CH was 99.77%, 96.80%, 81.25% and 71.88%, respectively. TSH > 9 mU/L seems to be a reasonable cut-off value. Key words: Newborn screening; Hypothyroidism; Thyrotropin; Reference values