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Capillary Thyroid Function Screening (TF Test)
Children with Down’s syndrome have high rates of thyroid disease. Current guidance suggests that children and young people with Down Syndrome should have annual thyroid screening.
Screening
Capillary blood sampling (finger prick test) is an effective method of screening for children with Down’s Syndrome. It is less invasive than formal blood samplings.
Sampling will be offered in your child’s school setting once a year, this involves a pin prick test from a finger. The samples will be taken by a trained health professional. You are welcome to attend the screening test but this is not required.
Test results will be sent your home address and shared with your GP.
If your child is already on thyroxine replacement, they can still be screened.
If your child is under the care of another paediatrician, please inform our team of their details and they can share the results.
Last reviewed: 1 November, 2023
