Cretinism is a result of a deficiency in which hormone?

Cretinism is primarily associated with a deficiency in thyroxine, which is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. This condition is characterized by severe developmental delays and various physical impairments resulting from inadequate levels of thyroid hormone during crucial periods of growth, especially in infancy and childhood.

Thyroxine plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, growth, and brain development. When there is a deficiency in this hormone, it leads to symptoms such as stunted growth, intellectual disabilities, and other physical abnormalities. Early detection and treatment with thyroid hormone replacement can significantly improve outcomes for affected individuals.

In contrast, the other hormones mentioned—insulin, cortisol, and growth hormone—are linked to different conditions and have distinct roles in the body's endocrine system. For instance, insulin is crucial for glucose metabolism, cortisol is involved in stress responses and regulating metabolism, and growth hormone is key for overall growth and development. However, they do not directly cause cretinism.