What condition is referred to as cretinism in children and myxedema in adults?

The condition referred to as cretinism in children and myxedema in adults is known as hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which are essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development.

In infants and children, insufficient thyroid hormone can lead to cretinism, characterized by severe developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and physical deformities. If not treated promptly, the consequences can be permanent. In adults, hypothyroidism results in myxedema, which presents with symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and dry skin, among others. In more severe cases, myxedema can lead to a life-threatening condition known as myxedema coma, although this is rare.

The other conditions listed do not accurately represent the same issues. Hyperthyroidism involves excessive hormone production, while thyroiditis and Hashimoto's disease are specific types of thyroid inflammation, with Hashimoto's being an autoimmune form that can lead to hypothyroidism but does not inherently define the broader condition of deficiency in thyroid hormone production. Thus, the answer aligns precisely with the definitions of cretinism and myxedema.