Association of maternal thyroid peroxidase antibody exposure with children’s emotional and behavioral problems

Abstract

Objective: Maternal thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) positivity has been associated with a variety of pregnancy complications and has potential neuropsychological developmental implications for the offspring. The aim of our study was to explore the effect of maternal TPOAb levels on emotional and behavioral problems in children. Design: The study was designed as a cohort study. Participants: Based on the Ma’anshan birth cohort in China, 2,464 mother-infant pairs were included in this study. Measurements: Repeated blood samples were collected from pregnant women, and TPOAb and FT4 were measured retrospectively by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA). The strengths and difficulties questionnaire was used to assess the emotional and behavioral problems of 4-year-old preschoolers. Results: After adjusting for potential confounders, maternal TPOAb positivity during the third trimester of pregnancy was found to be associated with an elevated risk of conduct problems in girls, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.190 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.137–4.219). Conversely, maternal TPOAb positivity in the first trimester was linked to a decreased incidence of prosocial behavior in boys, with an OR of 0.451 (95% CI: 0.237–0.861). Conclusions: Maternal TPOAb positivity during pregnancy may be associated with emotional and behavioral problems in preschool-aged children.

Keywords

• thyroid peroxidase antibody
• thyroid hormone
• thyroid hormone trajectories
• emotional and behavioral problems
• pregnancy
• preschool children