ADA NBDE National Board Dental Part II

Answer: A - Hypothyroidism is characterized by low levels of the thyroid hormone. Primary hypothyroidism is due to the thyroid gland being defective and producing less thyroid hormone than needed. Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by inadequate production of thyroid stimulating hormone by the pituitary gland. In adults, hypothyroidism is often caused by an autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In infants, the condition is called cretinism.